US20080027266A1 - Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same - Google Patents
Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080027266A1 US20080027266A1 US11/867,625 US86762507A US2008027266A1 US 20080027266 A1 US20080027266 A1 US 20080027266A1 US 86762507 A US86762507 A US 86762507A US 2008027266 A1 US2008027266 A1 US 2008027266A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- therapy
- target tissue
- therapy delivery
- tissue region
- delivery portion
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/10—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy
- A61N5/1001—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy using radiation sources introduced into or applied onto the body; brachytherapy
- A61N5/1027—Interstitial radiation therapy
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/10—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy
- A61N5/1001—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy using radiation sources introduced into or applied onto the body; brachytherapy
- A61N5/1007—Arrangements or means for the introduction of sources into the body
- A61N2005/1011—Apparatus for permanent insertion of sources
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/10—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy
- A61N5/1001—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy using radiation sources introduced into or applied onto the body; brachytherapy
- A61N2005/1019—Sources therefor
- A61N2005/1023—Means for creating a row of seeds, e.g. spacers
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N5/00—Radiation therapy
- A61N5/10—X-ray therapy; Gamma-ray therapy; Particle-irradiation therapy
- A61N2005/1092—Details
- A61N2005/1094—Shielding, protecting against radiation
Abstract
Description
- This application is a divisional of co-pending application Ser. No. 10/658,518, filed Jun. 17, 2004, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/409,449, filed 10 Sep. 2002, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The invention pertains generally to medical treatment and, more specifically, to apparatus, methods, and systems for providing brachytherapy to a human or other mammalian body.
- Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy used to treat malignant tumors such as cancer of the breast or prostate. In general, brachytherapy involves the positioning of a radiation source directly into target tissue, which may typically include the tumor and/or surrounding tissue that may contain potentially cancerous cells (such as a cavity or void created by removal of the tumor).
- Brachytherapy is often divided into two categories: high dose rate (HDR); and low dose rate (LDR). In HDR brachytherapy, a high activity radiation source is placed into the target tissue, often via a previously implanted catheter, for a short period of time, e.g., seconds to a few minutes. In contrast, LDR brachytherapy places a low activity radiation source into the tumor for a longer, e.g., indefinite, period of time.
- Both forms of brachytherapy have advantages. For instance, HDR brachytherapy provides higher radiation levels delivered over a shorter dose delivery period. LDR brachytherapy, on the other hand, utilizes lower activity radiation sources. The energy field of the LDR radiation source results in a measured and localized dose of radiation delivered to the target tissue, e.g., the tumor, gland, or other surrounding tissue. However, the energy field thereafter decays to avoid excessive exposure of nearby healthy tissue.
- Due in part to the lower activity of LDR radiation sources, LDR brachytherapy may provide various advantages. For example, for healthcare workers, exposure precautions for LDR brachytherapy may be less stringent than those for HDR brachytherapy. Moreover, for patients, the relatively longer implantation period associated with LDR brachytherapy may result in fewer visits to a healthcare facility over the course of radiation treatment.
- Common radiation sources used in LDR brachytherapy include radioactive isotopes such as Palladium (Pd)-103, Iodine (I)-125, Gold (Au)-198, and Iridium (Ir)-192. While the size and shape of the isotopes may vary, they are, in common applications (e.g., prostate brachytherapy), provided in cylindrically shaped capsules that are approximately the size of a grain of rice, e.g., about 0.8 millimeters (mm) in diameter and about 4.5 mm in length, and are often referred to as “seeds.
- LDR seeds are often delivered through needles using a guide template. The guide template may include a matrix of holes that guide the longitudinal advancement of the needles to insure their proper position relative to the target tissue. Once the needles are properly located in the target tissue, the seeds may be deposited along the longitudinal axis of each needle, after which the needles may be withdrawn.
- While effective, current brachytherapy implementations have potential drawbacks. For example, the LDR seeds are typically left indwelling and free floating within the target tissue and are, therefore, susceptible to migration. Moreover, once implanted, LDR seeds are generally not considered to be removable or repositionable. LDR brachytherapy may also require careful dose distribution calculations and seed mapping prior to, and often during, seed implantation. Such calculation and mapping allows effective radiation delivery to the target tissue volume, while minimizing radiation to surrounding healthy tissue (the urethra and rectum, for example, in prostate brachytherapy). Yet, while such dose calculation and seed mapping techniques are effective, problems—such as potentially significant variability in accuracy of seed placement among different clinicians—may exist.
- Yet another issue with conventional LDR brachytherapy techniques is that many of these techniques often require the radioactive seeds to be manipulated individually at the time of implantation, an often time-consuming process. Moreover, conventional LDR delivery needles are generally limited to delivering the seeds linearly (along a relatively straight line). Thus, to achieve the desired therapy profile, numerous implants (e.g., about 50-100 seeds are common with prostate brachytherapy), in conjunction with potentially complex dose distribution and mapping techniques and equipment, are often required.
- The present invention is broadly directed to apparatus and methods for delivering brachytherapy to a localized target tissue region. While the invention is useful in treating most any area of the body, it offers particular advantages in the treatment of breast tissue, e.g., breast tumors or lumpectomy cavities. For example, the invention may be used to place and remove a localized radiation source for both neoadjuvant and post-excisional treatment.
- In one embodiment, a flexible implantable brachytherapy treatment device is provided. The device may include one or more of: a therapy delivery portion including a non-dissolving casing; and one or more radiation sources fixed relative to the casing. In other embodiments, an elongate removal portion extending from the therapy delivery portion may be provided.
- In another embodiment, a brachytherapy treatment device operable for both implantation into, and subsequent removal from, a target tissue region of a body is provided. The device may include a therapy delivery portion having one or more radioactive sources fixed relative to a casing, where the casing is operable to be positioned in direct contact with the target tissue region. The device may also include at least one non-dissolving flexible tail portion extending from the therapy delivery portion.
- In yet another embodiment, a brachytherapy treatment device for implanting a plurality of radioactive sources into a target tissue region of a body, and for removing multiple radioactive sources at the completion of brachytherapy, is provided. The device may include a therapy delivery portion having a heat-shrinkable casing operable to securely retain the multiple radioactive sources. The device may further include a non-dissolving, first flexible tail portion extending from a first end of the therapy delivery portion, and a non-dissolving, second flexible tail portion extending from a second end of the therapy delivery portion.
- In still yet another embodiment, a device for delivering brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a body is provided wherein the device may include an elongate, non-dissolving flexible casing adapted to securely hold therein a plurality of radioactive sources.
- In yet another embodiment, a device for delivering brachytherapy to a lesion of the breast is provided, wherein the device includes a non-dissolving flexible casing adapted to securely hold therein a radioactive source.
- In still another embodiment, a brachytherapy delivery apparatus is provided. The apparatus may include means for simultaneously implanting, in a parallel array, a plurality of catheters into a target tissue region, wherein each catheter of the plurality of catheters is operable to receive one or more radioactive sources.
- In still another embodiment, a garment for attenuating radiation from an implantable brachytherapy device is provided. The garment includes a fabric portion operable to cover an area surrounding the brachytherapy device, and a radiation attenuating material associated with the fabric portion.
- In still yet another embodiment of the invention, a kit for delivering brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a body is provided. The kit may include a removably implantable elongate brachytherapy device having: a therapy delivery portion; one or more radioactive sources secured to the therapy delivery portion; and at least one non-dissolving flexible tail portion extending from the therapy delivery portion. A catheter for delivering the brachytherapy device to the target tissue region may also be provided.
- Another embodiment of the invention provides a catheter for implanting at least one radioactive source into a target tissue region of a body. The catheter may have a radiotransparent portion and a radioabsorptive portion, wherein the radioabsorptive portion extends substantially along a longitudinal length of a dose delivery portion of the catheter.
- In still another embodiment, a catheter assembly for delivering one or more radioactive sources to a target tissue region of a body is provided. The catheter assembly may include a first catheter member and a second catheter member positionable within the first catheter member. The second catheter member may be operable to extend outwardly from an opening at or near a distal end of the first catheter member such that an axis of the second catheter member intersects an axis of the first catheter member.
- In another embodiment, a catheter assembly for delivering a high dose radiation (HDR) source to a target tissue region of a body is provided. The catheter assembly may include a catheter shaft comprising a distal end and a proximal end, and an inflatable balloon coupled to the catheter shaft between the distal end and the proximal end. A dose delivery lumen may be provided and extend along the catheter shaft between the proximal end and the distal end. A dose delivery portion of the catheter shaft surrounded by the inflatable balloon may include a radioabsorptive portion.
- In still yet another embodiment, a system for implanting a plurality of brachytherapy devices into a target tissue region of a body is provided. The system may include a catheter guiding template, a cartridge receiver associated with the catheter guiding template, and a pre-assembled cartridge having a plurality of delivery catheters arranged in a fixed relationship. The cartridge receiver is operable to receive the pre-assembled cartridge.
- Yet another embodiment addresses a method of providing brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a body. The method may include providing an elongate brachytherapy device having: a therapy delivery portion with one or more radioactive sources secured thereto; and a non-dissolving flexible tail portion extending from the therapy delivery portion. The therapy delivery portion may be located at a static position within the target tissue region, wherein the flexible tail portion protrudes outside the body. Brachytherapy may be delivered with the one or more radioactive sources.
- In still another embodiment, a method of providing brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a body is provided. The method may include simultaneously advancing multiple catheters into a target tissue region, and delivering one or more radiation sources through at least one catheter of the multiple catheters.
- In still yet another embodiment, a method of providing brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a body is provided. The method may include simultaneously advancing multiple catheters into a target tissue region, and delivering one or more radiation sources through at least one catheter of the multiple catheters.
- In yet another embodiment, a method for delivering brachytherapy to a lesion of the breast is provided. The method may include implanting a radioactive source at or near the lesion, delivering brachytherapy, and removing the lesion. The radioactive source may be removed prior to or during removal of the lesion.
- The above summary of the invention is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. Rather, a more complete understanding of the invention will become apparent and appreciated by reference to the following detailed description and claims in view of the accompanying drawing.
- The present invention will be further described with reference to the drawing, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary brachytherapy apparatus or kit in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 2A-2E are diagrammatic illustrations of a method of using the brachytherapy apparatus ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 2F is a diagrammatic illustration of another brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with the present invention; -
FIGS. 3A-3B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 4A-4B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 5A-5B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 5C is a view of the brachytherapy device ofFIGS. 5A-5B illustrating an exemplary removal method; -
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a brachytherapy apparatus or kit in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 7 illustrates the brachytherapy apparatus ofFIG. 6 as it may be partially assembled; -
FIGS. 8A-8E are diagrammatic illustrations of a method of using the brachytherapy apparatus ofFIGS. 6 and 7 ; -
FIGS. 9A-9B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 10A-10B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 11A-11B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 12A-12B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with still another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 13A-13B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 14A-14B are enlarged partial views of a brachytherapy device in accordance with still yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic view of a brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 16A-16G are diagrammatic illustrations of non-linear brachytherapy apparatus and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, whereFIGS. 16A-16E illustrate a dual, off-axis catheter assembly; andFIGS. 16F-16G illustrate a spiral-shaped catheter; -
FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate a brachytherapy apparatus in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 18 is a view of a radiation attenuating garment, e.g., brassiere, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
FIGS. 19A-19C are diagrammatic views of a balloon catheter assembly, e.g., HDR catheter, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 20 is an exemplary embodiment of a delivery or implantation system for use with the brachytherapy methods and apparatus described herein; -
FIG. 21 is a diagrammatic view of the delivery systemFIG. 20 as it may be used with the brachytherapy methods and apparatus described herein, e.g., the methods described inFIGS. 2A-2F and 8A-8E; -
FIG. 22 is an enlarged view of an exemplary catheter, e.g., needle, guiding template for use with the delivery system ofFIG. 21 ; -
FIG. 23 is diagrammatic view of another delivery or implantation system for use with the brachytherapy methods and apparatus described herein; -
FIG. 24 is an exploded view of a portion, e.g., a cartridge, of the delivery system ofFIG. 23 ; -
FIGS. 25A-25D are diagrammatic illustrations of a delivery or implantation system and method in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 26 is a view of a portion of a human body, e.g., a female breast, after the brachytherapy devices as described herein have been implanted and secured; and -
FIG. 27 is a cross-section of a portion of the delivery system ofFIGS. 25A-25D . - In the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying figures of the drawing which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- Generally speaking, the present invention is directed to brachytherapy apparatus and methods. More particularly, the present invention provides a system for delivering one or more therapeutic elements (e.g., radiation sources) relative to a target tissue region. Once delivered, the radiation sources may be either immediately withdrawn (e.g., in HDR applications), or left in place, e.g., implanted, for a defined period (e.g., in LDR applications). In either instance, the radiation sources may deliver therapy to the target tissue region in accordance with a predefined therapy profile.
- In some embodiments, LDR radiation sources may be implanted and secured to the body or target tissue in such a way as to prevent or substantially limit movement of the sources relative to the target tissue. Unlike conventional LDR brachytherapy, apparatus and methods of the present invention provide not only indwelling therapy using pre-arranged packages of radioactive sources, e.g., seeds, but also allow easy removal of the radiation sources at the completion of brachytherapy.
- As used herein, “radiation source” may include most any therapeutic element operable to deliver a dose of radiation. For example, the radiation source may be a radioactive seed or, alternatively, a LDR or HDR wire element (e.g., Iridium wire).
- The term “implantable,” as used herein, indicates the capability of a device to be inserted into the body and then maintained in a fixed or static position, relative to the immediately surrounding tissue, for an extended period of time, e.g., an hour or more and, more preferably, several hours or more.
- Furthermore, “target tissue,” “target tissue region,” and “target tissue volume,” as used herein, may include most any portion of a human (or other mammalian) body that has been identified to benefit from radiation therapy. For example, the target tissue region may be a tumor or lesion itself, tissue proximate or surrounding the tumor, or a cavity created by tumor excision (such as the surrounding tissue associated with a lumpectomy cavity of the breast).
- It should be noted that, while described herein primarily with respect to LDR brachytherapy, the apparatus and methods of the present invention may also have application to HDR brachytherapy (e.g., HDR catheters) as further described below. Moreover, while described herein with respect to brachytherapy, the present invention may have application to other therapy regimens that benefit from the removable implantation of therapy-delivering elements.
- For the sake of brevity, the invention is described herein as it relates to the treatment of breast cancer. However, this particular application is not limiting. That is, those of skill in the art will readily appreciate that the systems, apparatus, and methods described herein may find application to most any cancer that may receive benefit from brachytherapy.
- With this introduction, attention is now directed to the figures of the drawing.
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary kit orapparatus 100 for providing brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a body. Theapparatus 100 may include an elongate and flexible, removably implantable brachytherapy treatment device 102 (also referred to hereinafter as “brachytherapy device 102”) having atherapy delivery portion 104, and an elongate andflexible tail portion 106. Thetail portion 106 may, as further described below, provide the ability to remove thedevice 102 at therapy completion. Other components described below, e.g., locking members, may also be included with theapparatus 100. - The term “flexible” is used herein to describe a component that is highly pliant, e.g., a component that may be substantially and easily bent, flexed, and/or twisted without experiencing breakage or permanent deformation.
- The
therapy delivery portion 104 may form a carrier pod of therapeutic elements, e.g., radiation sources such asradioactive seeds 108, secured relative to one another and to thetherapy delivery portion 104. One ormore spacers 110 may optionally be located between eachseed 108 to obtain the desired seed separation. - The
seeds 108 may be produced from most any acceptable radioactive source now known (e.g., radioactive Palladium or Iodine) or later developed. Typically,numerous seeds 108 are provided and precisely placed along the length of thetherapy delivery portion 104 in order to correspond to the desired therapy delivery regimen. While the radioactive sources are described herein asseeds 108, they may take other forms such as a continuous filament (or numerous discontinuous segments) of radioactive wire (e.g., Iridium wire). - In some embodiments, the
brachytherapy device 102 may include a flexible casing or casing member, illustrated in the figures as tube ortube member 112, in which theseeds 108 andoptional spacers 110 are securely retained. In some embodiments, the casing is made from a non-dissolving and flexible, heat-shrinkable tubing material. “Heat-shrinkable tubing,” as used herein, refers to tubing, such as various plastic tubing, in which subsequent thermal exposure causes the tubing to shrink, thereby allowing it to securely retain theseeds 108 in place. Exemplary heat-shrinkable materials include polyester, fluorinated polymers, and polyolefins. - While most any number of tubing sizes are contemplated, in one embodiment, the
tube 112 may have an initial inside diameter of about 1 mm and a wall thickness of about 0.05 mm. Once heated, thetube 112 may shrink (if unconstrained) to an outer diameter ranging from about 0.3 mm to about 0.6 mm. - While the casing is described herein generally as tube-shaped, the casing may, in other embodiments, be most any shape that is capable of effectively securing the
individual seeds 108 relative to the casing and to one another. - Once the
seeds 108 andoptional spacers 110 are located within thetube 112, the tube may be shrunk by exposure to heat, thus contracting thetube 112 around theseeds 108. Thetail portion 106 may be formed by an integral portion, e.g., extension, of the casing (tube 112) that extends beyond theseeds 108. To reduce the diameter of thetail portion 106, it may also be thermally treated (shrunk). Other embodiments (described below) may utilize a two-part brachytherapy device, e.g., a separate filament tail portion attached to the therapy delivery portion. - Regardless of the specific configuration, the
brachytherapy devices 102 described herein provide not only proper spacing of theseeds 108, but also facilitate subsequent seed identification and removal. Moreover, because the seeds are contained within the pod defined by thetherapy delivery portion 104, seeds may not require individual handling, thus simplifying inventory and handling prior to, and at the time of, implantation. - The components of the
device 102, including the casing (tube 112) andtail portion 106, are preferably constructed of non-dissolving materials. The term “non-dissolving” is used herein to indicate most any material that does not substantially deteriorate or otherwise break down during the implantation period. - The
brachytherapy apparatus 100 may also include a catheter, e.g.,needle 114. While illustrated asneedle 114, any other type of catheter, such as the cannulae described further below, may also be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Theneedle 114 defines alumen 115 of sufficient size to allow thetherapy device 102 to pass through as indicated inFIG. 1 . Theneedle 114, in some embodiments, may further include ahub 116 at a proximal end to assist with manipulation of the needle and insertion of thetherapy device 102. A distal end of theneedle 114 may form a sharpenedtip 117 operable to pierce the body as further described below. Theneedle 114 may be made from most any suitable biocompatible material. For example, it may be made from metal, e.g., stainless steel, titanium, or nickel titanium alloy. It may also include a removable outer sheath (not shown) made of plastic, e.g., fluorinated polymers. -
FIGS. 2A-2E illustrate an exemplary method of using thebrachytherapy apparatus 100 ofFIG. 1 . Once a target tissue region 202 (a tumor or tumor cavity) withinbody 200 is accurately located, theneedle 114 may be inserted into thebody 200, as shown byarrow 203 inFIG. 2A , to a predetermined depth. The relative location(s) of theneedle 114 and/or thetarget tissue region 202 may be determined by most any method, e.g., via ultrasound, CT scan, stereotactic X-ray, etc. Theneedle 114 may further be aligned with the use of a needle guiding template as further described below, or by other techniques. - Next, the
brachytherapy device 102 may be inserted into thelumen 115 of theneedle 114, as shown byarrow 205 inFIG. 213 , until thetherapy delivery portion 104 is located at the desired depth relative to thetarget tissue region 202 as shown inFIG. 2C . To assist in determining the approximate insertion depth of thetherapy device 102, thetail portion 106 may includemeasurement demarcations 118. Other location verification techniques, e.g., X-ray, ultrasound, etc., may also be used. - Once the
therapy device 102 is located at the desired depth, theneedle 114 may be withdrawn from the body in thedirection 207 as shown inFIG. 2D , leaving thetherapy delivery portion 104 of thedevice 102 at the desired position within thebody 200. Thetail portion 106 is preferably of sufficient length such that it extends outside of thebody 200 as shown inFIG. 2E . That is, thetail portion 106 may extend externally through a puncture made by theneedle 114. - In order to prevent migration of the
therapy delivery portion 104, a lockingmember 120 may be crimped or otherwise attached to thetail portion 106 of thetherapy delivery device 102 immediately adjacent the associated puncture in thebody 200. The lockingmember 120 may assist in maintaining the location of thetherapy delivery portion 104 relative to thetarget tissue region 202. While most any locking member may be used, one embodiment utilizes a malleable, hat- or U-shaped lock that can be easily and securely crimped to the tail portion with, for example, a surgical clip applier or similar tool. An enlarged view of an exemplary locking member is illustrated inFIG. 27 . - For illustration purposes, only a single
therapy delivery device 102 is shown inFIGS. 2A-2E . However, in practice, multiple devices would be utilized to provide adequate dosage to thetarget tissue region 202. The actual number ofdevices 102 may vary depending on various parameters such as lesion size, radiation source activity levels, and proximity to other organs/vulnerable tissue (e.g., skin, chest wall). However, quantities ranging from about 5 to about 25 devices are contemplated. -
FIG. 2F illustrates a variation of thetherapy device 102 ofFIGS. 2A-2E that may offer additional benefits, especially to the treatment of breast cancers. In this embodiment, atherapy device 152 similar in most respects to thedevice 102 is provided. However, thedevice 152 may include both a first tail portion extending from a first end of atherapy delivery portion 154 and a second tail portion extending from a second end, i.e., it may include atail portion 156 at each end of thetherapy delivery portion 154. During implantation, theneedle 114 may pass completely through the body, e.g.,breast 200, such that onetail portion 156 extends out the opposite side of thebreast 200. In this way, lockingmembers 120 may be secured at two locations relative to thetarget tissue region 202, thus preventing or substantially limiting movement of thetherapy delivery portion 154 relative to thetarget tissue region 202. - Unlike conventional brachytherapy catheters, which may be 2 mm or more in diameter, the devices of the present invention, e.g.,
devices 102, may be about 1 mm or less in diameter at thetherapy delivery portion 104 and even smaller at thetail portion 106. This construction permits thedevices 102 to be relatively small and flexible, and thus less obtrusive to the patient. In fact, the size and flexibility of thetail portions 106 may be similar to that of a conventional suture. As a result, securing thetail portions 106 may be accomplished in any number of ways including, for example, folding the tail portions against the contour of the surrounding body and fixing them such as by tying the ends and/or securing the ends with adhesive, the latter represented bybandage 2600 inFIGS. 2E and 26 . -
FIG. 3A is an enlarged view of thetherapy device 102 ofFIG. 1 . As clearly illustrated in this view, thetherapy device 102 may include thetherapy delivery portion 104 and thetail portion 106. As described above, thetherapy delivery portion 104 may include one, or preferably more,radioactive seeds 108 separated byspacers 110 and encased within the casing, e.g., heat-shrinkable tube 112. Thetail portion 106 may be formed by the portion of thetube 112 that does not surround theseeds 108. In some embodiments, the conformal properties of thetube 112 may be sufficient to ensure proper seed spacing, thus negating the need forspacers 110.FIG. 3B illustrates a section view through aseed 108 and thetube 112 taken alongline 3B-3B ofFIG. 3A . -
FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate atherapy device 402 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Thedevice 402 is similar in many respects to thedevice 102 described above. For example, thedevice 402 may include atherapy delivery portion 404 and atail portion 406 as illustrated inFIG. 4A . A casing, e.g., heat shrinkabletube 412, may be used to encase theseeds 108 andoptional spacers 110 as well as to form thetail portion 406. However, unlike the embodiment ofFIGS. 3A-3B , thetube 412 may include aradioabsorptive portion 414, e.g., a substance or liner, positioned along a portion of the circumference of the therapy delivery portion 404 (seeFIG. 4B ). Theradioabsorptive portion 414 may include a radiation attenuating material, and thus reduce radiation exposure to tissue blocked by theradioabsorptive portion 414 as opposed to tissue not blocked by theportion 414. While not limited to any particular embodiment, the radioabsorptive portion may be formed by a substance (e.g., Tungsten, Nickel-Titanium alloy, stainless steel) applied to, or impregnated within, a portion of thetube 412. Alternatively, the radioabsorptive portion(s) may be formed by a liner within, or secured to a portion of, thetube 412.FIG. 4B illustrates a section view through aseed 108 and thetube 412 taken alongline 4B-4B ofFIG. 4A . - The term “radiotransparent” is used herein to indicate only that the identified portion of the apparatus or device is relatively more transparent to radiation than the portion identified as “radioabsorptive.”
-
FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate atherapy device 502 in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. Thedevice 502 is similar in many respects to thedevice 102 described above. For example, thedevice 502 may include atherapy delivery portion 504 and atail portion 506 as shown inFIG. 5A . A casing, e.g., heat shrinkabletube 512, may be used to encase theseeds 108 andoptional spacers 110 as well as to form thetail portion 506. However, unlike the previous embodiments, thetherapy device 502 may incorporate an anchor member, e.g., a flat or roundcross-section anchor wire 514, which extends along at least a part of thetherapy delivery portion 504. Theanchor wire 514 protrudes from one or both ends of the therapy delivery portion and may be bent to form one or more hooks or anchors 516. - When the
therapy delivery portion 504 exits the needle 114 (seeFIG. 1 ) during implantation, theanchors 516 may extend and engage surrounding tissue, thereby assisting in preventing migration of thetherapy device 502. While only a single anchor is shown at each end of thetherapy delivery portion 504, other embodiments may include multiple anchors at one or both ends to further resist movement, e.g., rotating or twisting.FIG. 5B illustrates a section view through aseed 108 and thetube 512 taken alongline 5B-5B ofFIG. 5A . - After the desired dose of radiation has been delivered, the therapy device 102 (or any of the other therapy devices described herein, e.g.,
devices 402 or 502), may be removed in any number of ways. For example, thedevice 102 may be removed by first removing any dressing (e.g.,bandage 2600 ofFIG. 2E ) and locking member(s) 120, and then simply applying a pulling force to one of thetail portions 106 that extends outside of thebody 200. Alternatively, thedevices 102 may be removed prior to or during excisional surgery of thetumor 202 via known methods, e.g., via methods similar to excision utilizing localization wires. - Where the
therapy device 102 includes internal retaining elements, e.g., anchors 516 of device 502 (FIG. 5A ), aremoval catheter 550 as shown inFIG. 5C may be used. Theremoval catheter 550 is similar in most respects to the delivery cannulae and needles described herein, e.g.,needle 114. Thecatheter 550 may be threaded over thetail portion 106 and advanced until it encompasses thetherapy delivery portion 104. For example, theremoval catheter 550 may be advanced until its distal end engages the distal retaining element(s), e.g.,distal anchor 516 ofFIG. 5A . Further advancement of theremoval catheter 550 may bend the anchor sufficiently to permit the therapy delivery portion to slide into the removal catheter as shown in the broken line representation ofFIG. 5C . Thedevice 502 and theremoval catheter 550 may then be withdrawn as a unit from the body. - With any of the methods described herein, the time that the brachytherapy devices remain implanted may vary according to the desired therapy regimen. While not wishing to be bound to any fixed period, implantations from about one hour up to about eight weeks or more are contemplated for therapy. However, for breast brachytherapy, implantation periods ranging from about one day to several weeks are more likely. Moreover, because of the construction of the devices, e.g.,
devices 102, they may be removed over a range of timeframes subsequent to implantation. This is in contrast to the permanent placement associated with conventional LDR brachytherapy and the short exposure time associated with conventional HDR brachytherapy. As a result, intermediate activity radiation sources may be utilized with the methods and apparatus of the present invention, as well as conventional low and, as further described below, high activity sources. -
FIG. 6 illustrates a brachytherapy kit orapparatus 600 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Unlike theapparatus 100 ofFIG. 1 , theapparatus 600 may include, among other components, at least a removably implantable brachytherapy treatment device (brachytherapy device 602), a pusher orpusher member 620, a catheter, e.g., cannula orcannula member 630, and asharp obturator 640. - The
therapy device 602, once again, may include atherapy delivery portion 604 and a removal ortail portion 606. Thetherapy delivery portion 604 may include one ormore seeds 108 andoptional spacers 110. Theseeds 108 may be enclosed within a casing, e.g., heat-shrinkable tube ortube member 612, similar in most respects to thetube 112 described above. - The
tail portion 606 in this embodiment, however, is formed by an elongate filament or wire, e.g., a non-dissolvingsurgical suture 614, coupled or otherwise attached to thetherapy delivery portion 604. While most any method of attaching thesuture 614 to thetherapy delivery portion 604 is possible, one embodiment forms aknot 616 in the suture. Theknot 616 may be captured when thetube 612 is heat-shrunk to thetherapy delivery portion 604. In other embodiments, thesuture 614 may be knotted around or otherwise attached directly to thetherapy delivery portion 604. Such suture attachment methods are exemplary only, however, as most any other method of attaching thesuture 614 to thetherapy delivery portion 604 is possible. Thesuture 614, as with thetail portion 106 described above, is preferably made from a non-dissolving material, e.g., polypropylene, polyester, polyamide. - The
pusher member 620 may include a lumen through which thetherapy device 602 may pass as indicated inFIGS. 6 and 7 . The pusher member may include asuture locking device 622, e.g., a luer hub, at a proximal end to assist with loading and securing of thetherapy device 602. Thelocking device 622 may secure thesuture 614 relative to thepusher 620 as further described below. While illustrated as a luer hub, thelocking device 622 may include most any friction or clamping device known in the art. For example, the locking device may be an O-ring that may be selectively compressed to pinch thesuture 614. - The
cannula member 630 may also include a lumen through which thepusher member 620 may pass as indicated inFIG. 6 . Thecannula member 630 may include aluer hub 632 at its proximal end that is operable to secure the cannula member relative to the either thesharp obturator 640 or thepusher member 620 when either is slid into the lumen of the cannula member as further described below. - The
sharp obturator 640 may include a handle portion with ahub 642 at a proximal end, and asharp point 644 operable to pierce body tissue at its distal end. The handle portion may permit comfortable manipulation of theobturator 640. The external diameter of theobturator 640 may be sized so that it fits within the lumen of thecannula member 630 as indicated inFIG. 6 . - The components of the
apparatus 600 may be made from most any suitable biocompatible material. For example, thecannula member 630, thepusher member 620, and thesharp obturator 640 may be made from metal, e.g., stainless steel or Titanium, or plastic. -
FIG. 7 illustrates theapparatus 600 as it may be assembled prior to use. Thesharp obturator 640 may be placed into thecannula 630 such that the sharpdistal end 644 of the obturator protrudes from the distal end of thecannula 630 as illustrated. Thetherapy device 602, which includes thetherapy delivery portion 604 and thesuture 614 as described above, may be positioned within thepusher member 620 such that thetherapy delivery portion 604 extends from its distal end and thesuture 614 extends from thehub 622 at its proximal end. Thesuture 614 may be pulled from the proximal end of thepusher member 620 until thetherapy delivery portion 604 is at or near the distal end of thepusher member 620 as shown. Thelocking device 622 may then be engaged to hold thesuture 614, and thus thetherapy delivery portion 604, in place relative to thepusher member 620. -
FIGS. 8A-8E illustrate an exemplary method of using thesystem 600 for delivery of brachytherapy to a portion of a body, e.g.,breast 200. Once thetarget tissue region 202, e.g., tumor or tumor cavity, is identified, the combinedcannula 630 and sharp obturator 640 (seeFIG. 7 ) may be advanced into thetarget tissue region 202 as illustrated byarrow 802 inFIG. 8A . When the distal end of thecannula 630 reaches the desired depth, thesharp obturator 640 may be removed (moved in the direction 804) through the proximal end of the cannula as shown inFIG. 8B , while leaving thecannula 630 in place. - The combined
pusher member 620 and therapy device 602 (seeFIG. 7 ) may then be inserted into the proximal end of thecannula 630, in thedirection 806, as shown inFIG. 8C . Thepusher 620, andtherapy device 602, may be inserted until thetherapy portion 604 is at its desired location, e.g., at or near the distal end of thecannula 630. Location of thetherapy portion 604 may be assisted by image guidance, e.g., stereotactic X-ray, ultrasound, CT, etc. - Once the
therapy portion 604 is positioned, thecannula 630 may be retracted (moved in the direction 808), exposing thetherapy portion 604 to thetarget tissue region 202 as shown inFIG. 8D . Thelocking device 622 may then be unlocked such that thepusher member 620 andcannula 630 may be fully withdrawn (moved in the direction 810) from thebody 200 as shown inFIG. 8E . Thetherapy delivery portion 604 remains implanted at thetarget tissue region 202 while thesuture 614 extends outside the body. - These steps may be repeated for placement of each
brachytherapy device 602, or multiple devices may be implanted as a group as further described below. - Although not illustrated, a locking member, such as the locking
member 120 illustrated inFIGS. 2E and 27 , may be used to secure thetherapy device 602, e.g., the tail portion(s) 606, at one or both (seeFIG. 2F ) ends. Alternatively, thetherapy device 602 may include securing elements such as theanchors 516 shown inFIG. 5 . Still further, thetherapy device 602 may be secured simply by folding and adhering thetail portions 606 to the breast 200 (seeFIGS. 2E and 26 ). - After the desired dose of radiation has been delivered, the
therapy delivery device 102 may be removed in any number of ways as already described herein, e.g., using a removal member, such as thetail portion 606, or a removal cannula. -
FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of thetherapy device 602 ofFIGS. 6-7 . As clearly illustrated in this view, thetherapy device 602 may include thetherapy delivery portion 604 and thetail portion 606. Thetherapy delivery portion 604 may include one, or preferably more,radioactive seeds 108 securely retained within the casing, e.g., heat-shrinkable tube 612. Thetail portion 606 may be formed by thesuture 614. Theknot 616 of thesuture 614 may be secured to thetherapy delivery portion 604 by the heatshrinkable tube 612. While shown as utilizingspacers 110, they may not be required in some embodiments, e.g., the conformal properties of the casing, e.g.,tube 612, may be sufficient to ensureproper seed 108 spacing and containment.FIG. 9B illustrates a section view of theseed 108 andtube 612 taken alongline 9B-9B ofFIG. 9A . -
FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate atherapy device 1002 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Thedevice 1002 is similar in many respects to thedevice 602 described above. For example, thedevice 1002 may include atherapy delivery portion 1004 and atail portion 1006. A casing, e.g.,heat shrinkable tube 1012, may be used to encase theseeds 108 andoptional spacers 110. Like thedevice 602, thetail portion 1006 may be formed by asuture 614 having aknot 616 that may be heat shrinkable to thetherapy delivery portion 1004. However, unlike thedevice 602 ofFIGS. 9A-9B , thetube 1012 may include aradioabsorptive portion 1014 positioned along a part of the circumference of at least the therapy delivery portion 1004 (seeFIG. 10B ). Theradioabsorptive portion 1014, which may be formed integrally or separately with thetube 1012, may limit radiation exposure to tissue blocked by the radioabsorptive portion.FIG. 10B illustrates a section view of theseed 108 andtube 1012 taken alongline 10B-10B ofFIG. 10A . -
FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate atherapy device 1102 in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention. Thedevice 1102 is similar in many respects to thedevice 602 described above. For example, thedevice 1102 may include atherapy delivery portion 1104 and atail portion 1106. A casing, e.g.,heat shrinkable tube 1112, may be used to encase and constrain theseeds 108 andoptional spacers 110. Like the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 5A and 5B, thetherapy device 1102 may incorporate an anchor member, e.g.,anchor wire 1114, which extends along at least a part of thetherapy delivery portion 1104 and protrudes from one or both ends. Theanchor wire 1114 may be bent at one or both ends to form anchors 1116. When thetherapy delivery portion 1104 exits the cannula 630 (seeFIG. 8D ), theanchors 1116 may extend and capture surrounding tissue, thereby assisting in preventing migration of thetherapy device 1102.FIG. 11B illustrates a section view of theseed 108 andtube 1112 taken alongline 11B-11B ofFIG. 11A . - It is to be understood that any of the various components of the invention described herein may be used interchangeably with any of the described methods and systems. For example, any one of the
devices FIGS. 2A-2E , 2F, and 8A-8E without departing from the scope of the invention. - The embodiments described above utilize a therapy delivery portion (e.g.,
portion 104 ofFIG. 1 orportion 604 ofFIG. 6 ) formed primarily by the shrink fit tube (e.g.,tube 612 ofFIG. 9A ) andseeds 108. However, other embodiments of the therapy delivery portion may include an additional support member. The support member may be any material that lends support to the therapy delivery portion, e.g., a strip of material such as stainless steel or superelastic nickel titanium alloy. In addition to partially supporting theseeds 108, the material of the support member may divide the therapy delivery portion into a radiotransparent portion and a radioabsorptive portion. That is, it may partially surround at least a portion of theseeds 108 to provide some degree of attenuation or shielding of radiation to surrounding tissue. As a result, tissue on a side of the support member opposite theseeds 108 may receive a lower dose of radiation than tissue on the seed side. The support member may be enclosed within the casing, e.g., heat-shrinkable tube - For example,
FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate atherapy device 1202 having atail portion 1206 and atherapy delivery portion 1204 with a plurality ofseeds 108 and a straight support member 1210 (seeFIG. 12A ). Thesupport member 1210 may have a curved, e.g., arc-shaped, cross-section (seeFIG. 12B ). Alternatively, a relatively flat cross-section (not shown) may be provided. Other embodiments may utilize most any other cross-sectional shape, e.g., v-shaped. Thesupport member 1210 may also have a variety of leading edge shapes including the shovel-tip shape illustrated inFIG. 12A . Some or all of thesupport member 1210 may be encased within a casing, e.g.,heat shrinkable tube 1212, as already described above. - While the
support member 1210 ofFIG. 12A is generally straight, other support members in accordance with the present invention may be curved, e.g., may have some degree of curvature. For example,FIG. 13A illustrates atherapy device 1302 having atherapy delivery portion 1304 with acurved support member 1310 that imparts an arc- or otherwise curved-shape to thedelivery portion 1304. - The
support member 1310 may be formed to have curvature in its relaxed state or may simply be sufficiently flexible to permit curved implantation. As with thesupport member 1210 ofFIGS. 12A-12B , thesupport member 1310 may have most any cross-sectional shape, e.g., flat, curved (as shown inFIG. 13B ), V-shaped, etc. Some or all of thesupport member 1310 may be encased within a casing, e.g.,heat shrinkable tube 1312, generally identical to the casings already described above.FIG. 13B illustrates a section view taken alongline 13B-13B ofFIG. 13A . - While not illustrated herein, support members in accordance with the present invention may include one or more slots, e.g., along a centerline, so that seeds may be placed at least partially within the slot. As a result, a therapy delivery portion that offers more rigidity than the unsupported therapy delivery portions described herein may be obtained while ensuring tissue on both sides of the support member receives radiation treatment.
-
FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of atherapy delivery portion 1404. In this embodiment, the therapy delivery portion includes a catheter or casing, e.g.,tube 1412, having one or more lumens. A first ormain lumen 1408 may receive the seeds (not shown), while asecond lumen 1414 may contain an attenuating or shieldingelement 1416 extending over a longitudinal length of thetube 1412. As a result, thetube 1412 may have a radiotransparent portion (that portion not blocked by the element 1416), and a radioabsorptive portion (that portion shielded by the element 1416). In one embodiment, thetube 1412 can be made by co-extruding plastic (e.g., fluoropolymer) with an attenuating material such as strands of fine metallic wire (e.g., stainless steel, gold). In another embodiment, the attenuating material may be a coextrusion of polymer loaded with an attenuating material such as Tungsten powder. Thetube 1412 may or may not be heat-shrinkable. For versatility, theshielding element 1416 may be straight or preformed in a curve.FIG. 14B illustrates a section view taken alongline 14B-14B ofFIG. 14A . -
FIG. 15 is a partial view of anexemplary brachytherapy apparatus 1500 having atherapy device 1502 and catheter, e.g.,cannula 1501, wherein thedevice 1502 includes a curvedtherapy delivery portion 1504, and atail portion 1506. Other components of the system, e.g., pusher member and sharp obturator, are not illustrated in this view. The curvedtherapy delivery portion 1504 may be formed by a curved support member such assupport member 1310 ofFIG. 13A . Thecannula 1501 preferably has a lumen diameter sufficiently large to accommodate the curvedtherapy delivery portion 1504 when the latter is constrained in a straightened configuration for delivery. Alternatively, thecannula 1501 may be sized to receive thetherapy delivery portion 1504 when the latter is in its curved configuration. In still yet other embodiments, thetherapy delivery portion 1504 may be generally straight but flexible and thecannula 1501 used to deliver the therapy delivery portion may be curved. - Non-linear (e.g., curved) catheters may also be used for delivery and placement of the brachytherapy devices described herein to regions and positions inaccessible to straight catheters. For example,
FIGS. 16A-16E illustrate anexemplary apparatus 1650 and method operable to implant a brachytherapy device, e.g.,device 102 ofFIG. 1 , along a non-linear axis.FIG. 16A illustrates theapparatus 1650 including a first catheter member, e.g.,needle 1652, a second catheter member, e.g.,flexible catheter 1656, and abrachytherapy device 102. Theneedle 1652 includes an off-axis opening 1654 at or near a distal end of the needle. Theneedle 1652 may be inserted into thebody 200, in thedirection 1651, until the distal end is positioned past thetarget tissue region 202 as shown inFIG. 16A . Theflexible catheter 1656 may then be inserted through the needle 1652 (in the direction 1653) until adistal end 1667 of thecatheter 1656 protrudes from theopening 1654 of theneedle 1652 at anangle 1661 as shown inFIG. 16B . That is, an axis of thecatheter 1656 may intersect, or be otherwise nonparallel to, an axis of theneedle 1652. - The
angle 1661 between the axes may vary, but angles ranging from greater than about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees, and more preferably about 5 degrees to about 35 degrees, are contemplated. - The
device 102 may then be threaded through the catheter 1656 (in the direction 1655), as shown inFIG. 16C , until the therapy delivery portion of thedevice 102 is located at or near thedistal end 1667 of thecatheter 1656. - At this point, the
catheter 1656 may be withdrawn slightly (in the direction 1669) as shown inFIG. 16D , exposing the therapy delivery portion of thedevice 102. Theneedle 1652 andcatheter 1656 may then be withdrawn (in the direction 1671) from thebody 200 together as shown inFIG. 16E . Thedevice 102 is then implanted on a non-linear axis with itstail portion 106 extending outside the body as generally described above with reference to other embodiments (see e.g.,FIGS. 2A-2E ). - The ability to implant the
device 102 along a non-linear axis may be beneficial in many applications. For example, where thetarget tissue region 202 is a breast lesion or a lumpectomy cavity in the breast, thenon-linear device 102 may provide the capability to better focus radiation. Further, non-linear positioning may permit implantation around obstructions in the body. For example, in prostate brachytherapy, theregion 202 could be a pubic arch around which the clinician desires to place radiation sources. While described above with respect todevices 102, the non-linear placement ofFIGS. 16A-16E could also be used to implant individual radiation sources. - In yet other embodiments of non-linear placement apparatus and techniques, the
needle 1652 ofFIGS. 16A-16E may be replaced with a more spiral-shapedneedle 1675 as shown inFIGS. 16F and 16G . While the actual needle size may vary depending on target tissue volume, needles having a helix diameter of about 3 centimeters (cm) are contemplated. Theneedle 1675 may be advanced into thebody 200 in much the same way a corkscrew is inserted into a cork. That is, theneedle 1675 may be rotated in adirection 1678 such that asharp end 1676 penetrates thebody 200 as indicated inFIG. 16F .FIG. 16G illustrates theneedle 1675 once it is fully inserted. A flexible catheter (not shown) and therapy device (also not shown) may then be passed through theneedle 1675 in much the same way as thecatheter 1656 anddevice 102 are described with reference toFIGS. 16A-16E . Theneedle 1675 may then removed (“unscrewed”), leaving the therapy device in a spiral configuration around the target tissue region 202 (not illustrated). - When non-linear, e.g., off-axis, curved, and spiral, therapy delivery portions are used, the total number of therapy devices required to treat a given target tissue region may potentially be reduced as a result of the delivery portions' conformance to the shape of the target tissue. For example, in the case of curved delivery portions, several devices may be placed to curve around the target tissue region, effectively focusing radiation on a central area. This may result in lower dose exposure outside of the target tissue area, and potentially improved dose coverage within the target tissue. In the case of a spiral therapy delivery portion, a single therapy device of sufficient length may deliver adequate treatment by spiraling (e.g., forming a helix) around or within the target tissue region.
-
FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate anapparatus 1600 similar in most respects toapparatus 600 ofFIG. 6 . For instance, it may include atherapy device 1602 having atherapy delivery portion 1604 withseeds 108, and tail portion formed by asuture 1614. Thesuture 1614 may pass through apusher member 1620 and the combinedpusher member 1620 anddelivery device 1602 may be placed within acannula 1630. Unlike thecannula 630, however, thecannula 1630 may have acutout 1634, e.g., the cannula may have a C-shaped cross section, as shown more clearly inFIG. 17B , over at least a portion of its length. While shown as straight, thecannula 1630 may also be curved. The cutout configuration may protect certain surrounding tissues/organs, e.g., skin, chest wall, liver, heart, during implantation.FIG. 17B is a cross-section taken alongline 17B-17B ofFIG. 17A with thetherapy delivery device 1602 also shown in broken lines. - During implantation of any of the devices described herein, the patient may optionally wear a protective garment, e.g., a chest covering brassiere or
binder 1900, such as that illustrated inFIG. 18 . The brassiere/binder 1900 may be similar in many respects to those garments described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 3,968,803 to Hyman; U.S. Pat. No. 5,152,741 to Farnio; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,538,502 to Johnstone. That is, it may include a partial body covering that secures via fasteners, e.g.,shoulder straps 1904, to cover a portion of the chest (or other area surrounding the target tissue region). However, in addition to afabric portion 1906, thebinder 1900 may include a lining made from aradiation attenuating material 1902, e.g., lead, stainless steel, Tungsten. Such a garment may offer an added degree of shielding and permit greater patient mobility, while the radioactive sources, e.g.,seeds 108, are indwelling, in an out-patient setting. Thegarment 1900 may be provided separately, or as part of a brachytherapy kit, e.g.,kit 100. - Although discussed above primarily with respect to LDR brachytherapy, apparatus and/or methods of the present invention may also find use in HDR applications. For example, the
tube 1412 ofFIGS. 14A-14B may be used as a shielded delivery catheter for HDR treatment, e.g., thetube 1412 may be located in the body and a conventional HDR source (e.g., afterload HDR cable) of smaller diameter may be passed through themain lumen 1408. The attenuatingelement 1416 in the wall of the catheter (along a circumferential portion extending from about 10 o'clock to about 2 o'clock, for example) may attenuate the radiation exposure of regions vulnerable to radiation while the non-shielded section of the tube 1412 (along a circumferential portion extending from about 2 o'clock to about 10 o'clock) would allow exposure to the target tissue. - Further, for example, HDR radiation sources may be passed through a catheter, e.g., the
cannula 1630 ofFIGS. 17A and 17B , whereby the HDR radiation sources may be partially shielded from surrounding tissue by the geometry of thecannula 1630, e.g., thecutout 1634. -
FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate incorporation of a HDR shielded catheter in accordance with the present invention on a balloon-typebrachytherapy treatment device 1800. Thedevice 1800 may be similar to the device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,913,813 to Williams et al. That is, it may include abrachytherapy catheter assembly 1802 having acatheter shaft 1814 with a proximal end and a distal end. Aninflatable balloon 1806 may be coupled to thecatheter shaft 1814 between the proximal end and the distal end. Aninflation lumen 1830 may extend along thecatheter shaft 1814 between theinflatable balloon 1806 and the proximal end to allow inflation of the balloon. A dose delivery lumen 1804 (seeFIG. 19B ) may also be provided and extend along thecatheter shaft 1814 from the proximal end towards and the distal end, e.g., extending between theinflatable balloon 1806 and the proximal end. - In use, the distal end of the
catheter shaft 1814 may be placed into a cavity, e.g., alumpectomy cavity 1808 ofbreast 200, and theballoon 1806 inflated. A radiation source (not shown) may then be passed through thedose delivery lumen 1804, where it delivers radiation along a dose delivery portion of the catheter shaft, e.g., along a portion surrounded by theinflatable balloon 1806. By incorporating a radioabsorptive portion (e.g., arc-shapedmember 1811 clearly illustrated inFIG. 19C ) over the dose delivery portion of thecatheter shaft 1814, only a predetermined portion, e.g., awindow 1817, of the dose delivery portion may be relatively radiotransparent. As a result, thedevice 1800 may attenuate the radiation exposure of select areas, e.g., those close to the skin or chest wall, while delivering higher radiation levels to target tissue not blocked by theradioabsorptive portion 1811. While the radioabsorptive portion is illustrated herein as aseparate member 1811 extending along a portion of thecatheter shaft 1814, other embodiments may incorporate the radioabsorptive portion into thecatheter shaft 1814 itself (see. e.g., the catheters described elsewhere herein such as thetube 1412 ofFIGS. 14A-14B ). - In some embodiments, the
device 1800 may further include a vent system having one ormore vents 1810 positioned around at least a portion of an outer surface of theballoon 1806. Thevents 1810 may permit air and fluids within thecavity 1808 to escape as theballoon 1806 expands. One or more vent lumens 1812 (shown inFIG. 19B ) associated with thecatheter shaft 1814 may extend between the proximal end of thecatheter shaft 1814 and the one ormore vents 1810. Thevents 1810 may fluidly communicate with one ormore vent lumens 1812, thereby allowing the air and fluids to exit the body at the proximal end of thecatheter shaft 1814 during and after balloon expansion. - In some embodiments, the
external vents 1810 and ventlumens 1812 are formed by individual pieces oftubing 1816 attached to theballoon 1806 andcatheter shaft 1814. In the vicinity of theballoon 1806, thetubing 1816 may be perforated to form theexternal vents 1810. The portion of thetubing 1816 located proximate thecatheter shaft 1814 may or may not include perforations. Thetubing 1816 may be formed of most any biocompatible material that can be securely attached to, or formed with, theballoon 1806 andcatheter shaft 1814, e.g., silicone tubing. -
FIGS. 20-22 illustrate anexemplary system 1700 for implanting the LDR brachytherapy devices and their associated radiation sources described above to a target tissue region, e.g., the region surrounding a breast lumpectomy cavity. In the illustrated embodiment, the system includes a catheter orneedle guiding template 1702 having a predetermined number and pattern (array) ofopenings 1704 as shown inFIG. 20 . Thetemplate 1702 may form part of an adjustable catheter or needle guiding apparatus by coupling to a stereotactic table 1720, which is diagrammatically illustrated in the figures bybase portion 1722, and translating portion 1724 (portions FIG. 20 ). The stereotactic table 1720 is preferably coupled or attached to a patient locating ortreatment surface 1730, e.g., patient table. - The
template 1702 may be coupled to, or otherwise associated with, afirst compression member 1726 located adjacent anopening 1732 in thetreatment surface 1730. An opposingsecond compression member 1728 may be located on an opposite side of theopening 1732. Thecompression members plate 1727 shown). - One or both
compression members template 1702, or may otherwise at least permit the passage of the needles/cannulae (e.g., needles 114 ofFIG. 1 ) as illustrated inFIG. 21 . - In use, a patient may lie on the
treatment surface 1730, e.g., with the patient's head located in thedirection 1731, such that thebreast 200 passes through theopening 1732 of thetreatment surface 1730. Theoptional compression plates 1727 may then be used to immobilize thebreast 200. - Once the
breast 200 is immobilized, the stereotactic table 1720, with thetemplate 1702 attached, may be positioned, and the translatingportion 1724 moved, until thecompression members breast 200. The position of the stereotactic table 1720, and thus theneedle guiding template 1702, may be aligned with the location of thetarget tissue region 202 via the use of various imaging techniques including, for example, X-ray, ultrasound and CT scan. In some embodiments, thetemplate 1702 may be aligned relative to the target tissue region based upon input provided by an imaging device, e.g., a sideviewing ultrasound apparatus 1739, located underneath thebreast 200. - With the
template 1702 aligned with thetarget tissue region 202 and positioned against thebreast 200, one ormore needles 114 may be inserted into theopenings 1704. In the treatment of breast lesions, theneedles 114 may be inserted completely through thebreast 200 as illustrated inFIG. 21 . Alternatively, and in the treatment of other cancers, the length of eachneedle 114 may be varied to ensure the correct depth penetration at eachopening 1704, or the insertion depth of eachneedle 114 may simply be varied. - Certain embodiments of the
system 1700 may optionally include anadhesive bandage member 1750 associated with thefirst compression member 1726, and/or anadhesive bandage member 1752 associated with thesecond compression member 1728. Preferably, thebandage members breast 200. Thebandage members first side 1754 and asecond side 1756, and include openings (not shown) that correspond generally to theopenings 1704 of thetemplate 1702. Alternatively, thebandage members needles 114 during needle insertion. When thecompression members breast 200, thebandage members breast 200 and provide a dressing for the punctures created by theneedles 114. - Once the
needles 114 are inserted, the brachytherapy devices described herein, e.g.,devices needles 114 removed, in accordance with various methods as described and illustrated herein. For example, the brachytherapy devices 102 (or devices 602) may be inserted and the needles 114 (or the cannulae 630) removed in accordance with the methods described herein and illustrated inFIGS. 2A-2E and 2F (or 8A-8E). - With the
needles 114 removed, thetemplate 1702 andcontact plates breast 200, leaving thebandage members adhesive sides 1754. Thetail portions 106 may then be anchored, e.g., by using locking members such asmembers 120 illustrated inFIGS. 2E and 27 . - A liner (not shown) may then be removed from the respective second
adhesive side 1756 of eachbandage member adhesive side 1756 is exposed, theflexible tail portions 106 may be folded against the second adhesive side, where they adhere thereto. A second, single-sided adhesive member (not shown) may be placed over eachbandage member adhesive side 1756. As a result, the flexible tail portions may be folded against the contours of the breast and secured. - In some embodiments, the
openings 1704 of thetemplate 1702 may be grouped according to a particular target tissue volume, e.g., lesion size, as shown inFIG. 22 . For example, a small square, five-opening pattern 1740 may be utilized for small target tissue regions (e.g., those regions up to about 1 centimeter in diameter), while a larger nine-opening pattern 1742 may be utilized for larger target tissue regions (e.g., those regions up to about 2 cm in diameter). A still larger, thirteen-opening pattern may be utilized for even larger target tissue regions (e.g., those regions up to about 3 cm in diameter). - By aligning the center opening of the
template 1702 with the center of the target tissue region, the template may indicate a standard number of seeds, e.g., a particular number oftherapy devices 102, based upon the predetermined target volume. This could simplify, or possibly eliminate, the need for complex dose mapping calculations commonly associated with conventional brachytherapy methods. - It is noted that the
patterns openings 1704 in most any shaped pattern, e.g., a circular array of 5 to 50 catheters. Moreover, the templates could accommodate more that one diameter catheter or needle (e.g., 10, 15, and 20 mm diameters). Moreover, while shown with three patterns, templates having most any number are possible without departing from the scope of the invention. -
FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate another system for implanting brachytherapy devices of the present invention.FIG. 23 illustrates asystem 2300 similar in many respects to thesystem 1700 described above. For instance, thesystem 2300 may include a stereotactic table 2320 secured to treatment surface, e.g., patient table (not shown). The table 2320 may include abase portion 2322 and atranslational portion 2324. Thesystem 2300 may also include a first orproximal compression member 2326 and a second ordistal compression member 2328. One or bothcompression members base portion 2322, e.g., along aslide rail 2329. - Unlike the
system 1700, however, thesystem 2300 may also include a catheter orneedle cartridge receiver 2340 operable to receive apre-assembled needle cartridge 2342 havingmultiple needles 114 positioned in a predetermined array. Theneedle cartridge 2342 is shown in an exploded view inFIG. 24 . Thecartridge 2342 may include afirst holder 2344 and a second holder 2346 (second holder 2346 not shown inFIG. 24 ). Theholders holes 2348 to hold and guide themultiple needles 114 in the desired predetermined array during insertion. Where needles 114 include ahub 116, theholes 2348 in theholder 2346 may be larger than the correspondingholes 2348 in theholder 2344 to permit the passage of the hub 116 (seeFIG. 23 ). - During operation of the
system 2300, the stereotactic table 2320 may be aligned as described above with respect to thesystem 1700. Once aligned, thebreast 200 may be immobilized with thecompression members target tissue region 202, aspecific cartridge 2342 may be selected and pre-assembled with a corresponding number of catheters, e.g., needles 114. For instance, the cartridge inFIG. 24 is a 5 catheter configuration. However, other cartridges may utilize more or less catheters (e.g., 9 catheter and 13 catheter cartridges). Thecartridge 2342, including theholders catheters 114, may then be loaded into thecartridge receiver 2340. Portions of theholders cartridge receiver 2340 so that thecartridge 2342 aligns with the cartridge receiver upon insertion. - Once the
cartridge 2342 is loaded, eachneedle 114 may be independently and manually advanced through the proximal compression plate 2326 (which may include a hole pattern identical to the holder 2344), thebreast 200, and thedistal compression member 2328. Thecentral needle 114 may be advanced first and its position within thetarget tissue region 202 confirmed (or repositioned) before the remaining needles are advanced. Brachytherapy devices, e.g.,devices 102 ofFIG. 1 , may then be placed into theneedles 114 as described inFIGS. 2A-2E . Alternatively, thedevices 102 could be pre-installed in thecartridge 2342. - With the
devices 102 inserted completely, the distal tips of the tail portions, see e.g.,tail portion 106 ofFIG. 1 , may be temporarily secured relative to thedistal compression member 2328. At this point, theneedles 114 may be retracted and removed from thebreast 200, and ultimately, withdrawn from thecartridge loader 2340. Theproximal compression member 2326 may then be withdrawn and the proximal tail portions secured to the breast using, for example, the lockingdevices 120 described above and illustrated inFIGS. 2E and 27 . Thedistal compression member 2328 may then be withdrawn and the distal tail portions secured relative to thebreast 200 in a similar manner. -
FIGS. 25A-25D illustrate yet another system and method for inserting the brachytherapy devices of the present invention into a target tissue region.FIG. 25A illustrates asystem 2500 similar in many respects to thesystems system 2500 includes a stereotactic table (not shown) having a catheter orneedle cartridge receiver 2540 coupled thereto. The stereotactic table is preferably coupled to the treatment table (also not shown). Thesystem 2500 may also include a catheter orneedle cartridge 2542. Theneedle cartridge 2542 may include a series ofneedles 2514, e.g., 5, 9, or 13 needle array, which are generally rigidly and orthogonally mounted to afirst plunger member 2550. In this embodiment, theneedles 2514 may be hubless as the proximal ends of theneedles 2514 are secured (e.g., press fit, staked, adhered, etc.) to thefirst plunger member 2550. - The
cartridge 2542 may also include a first or proximal compression member 2526 (which may form the needle guiding template) as well as asecond plunger member 2552 and anoptional backing plate 2554. In other embodiments, thebacking plate 2554 may be part of thecartridge receiver 2540. As with the systems previously described herein, thesystem 2500 may also include a second ordistal compression member 2528 to assist in immobilizing thebreast 200. - During operation, the stereotactic table may be aligned such that the center of the
needle cartridge receiver 2540 is centered relative to thetarget tissue region 202. Thecartridge 2542 may then be loaded into thecartridge receiver 2540, and the breast immobilized by the first andsecond compression members devices 102 ofFIG. 1 , may have been previously loaded into theneedles 2514 of thecartridge 2542. Thefirst plunger member 2550 may then be advanced toward thebreast 200. Because theneedles 2514 are rigidly coupled to thefirst plunger member 2550, theneedles 2514 advance simultaneously into the target tissue region of thebreast 200 in the pre-determined parallel array. Thefirst plunger member 2550 may include atab 2560 that rides along a slot orsurface 2561 of thecartridge receiver 2540 so that thefirst plunger member 2550 may be manually or automatically advanced from outside the cartridge. - After the
first plunger member 2550 has been fully advanced as shown inFIG. 25B , thesecond plunger member 2552 may be advanced toward thebreast 200. Thesecond plunger member 2552 has theproximal tail portions 106 of thebrachytherapy devices 102 releasably secured thereto. Thus, advancing thesecond plunger member 2552 may advance one or more of thebrachytherapy devices 102 into place such that thedistal tail portions 106 emerge from the distal ends of theneedles 2514 as shown inFIG. 25C . - The
distal tail portions 106 may temporarily be secured to thedistal compression member 2528 to hold thebrachytherapy devices 102 in place. Once thedistal tail portions 106 are secured, theproximal tail portions 106 may be released from thesecond plunger member 2552 and the first andsecond plunger members FIG. 25D . Thecartridge receiver 2540 may also be retracted so that theproximal tail portions 106 may be secured in accordance with methods already described herein (e.g., locking members 120). Thedistal tail portions 106 may then be disconnected from thedistal compression member 2528 and the latter withdrawn. Thedistal tail portions 106 may then be secured relative to thebreast 200. - Thus, the
system 2500 provide an apparatus for simultaneously implanting, in a two dimensional array, multiple brachytherapy devices into the body. Moreover, the systems described herein allow simultaneously advancing a two-dimensional array of catheters into a target tissue region, and then delivering or implanting one or more radiation sources through at least one of the catheters of the array. Once the radiation sources are implanted, sequential or simultaneous removal of the catheters of the array of catheters from the target tissue region may be accomplished. - As already described above, some embodiments may permit the
tail portions 106 to be secured to the breast using an adhesive pad orbandage 2600 as illustrated inFIG. 26 . Here, the bandage may be used in conjunction with, or as an alternative to, the lockingmembers 120. - To assist the health-care provider in securing the distal and/or
proximal tail portions 106, thecompression members FIG. 27 . That is,openings 2570 in the plate (e.g., plate 2528) through which thetail portions 106 pass may include arecess 2572 that holds the lockingmember 120 against the skin. As a result, when thecompression plate 2528 is withdrawn, the lockingmember 120 may already be threaded over thetail portion 106. The health care provider may then quickly crimp the lockingmember 120, e.g., along adeformable portion 2576. - The brachytherapy devices described herein may be implanted into (and/or around) the tumor prior to surgical excision (neoadjuvantly), and then subsequently removed before or at the time of surgery. Preferably, such treatments may shrink or even destroy the tumor. In other embodiments, the present invention may be used to deliver brachytherapy after surgical removal of the tumor tissue to treat surrounding tissue post-operatively (post-lumpectomy in breast). In some instances, it is contemplated that brachytherapy apparatus and methods described and illustrated herein may supplement or reduce the need for conventional treatment options, e.g., tumor excision, full field external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), and chemotherapy. Alternatively, the methods described herein may be performed adjuvantly with these and other treatments, e.g., with chemo, EBRT.
- The brachytherapy devices described herein may also be both indwelling and removable. In contrast, conventional LDR and HDR brachytherapy seeds are typically one or the other—LDR seeds are generally indwelling but not removable while HDR sources are generally removable but remain indwelling only momentarily. As a result, the present invention may allow brachytherapy treatment at radiation activity levels greater than those commonly associated with LDR treatment while also permitting removal of the radioactive source. Moreover, treatment in accordance with the present invention may avoid some of the disadvantages of HDR treatment, e.g., high activity, exposure of unintended tissue, potentially bulky and protruding catheters, and the need for numerous patient visits to receive treatment.
- The brachytherapy devices described herein are also substantially flexible, in comparison to conventional HDR catheters, such that they may be placed in either a straight or curvilinear (e.g., curved or spiral) fashion. Such flexibility may permit implantation of radiation sources (e.g., seeds) in configurations and locations that otherwise may be considered inaccessible.
- Apparatus and methods of the present invention could also potentially achieve desired dosage with relatively few catheters. For example, apparatus and methods of the present invention could potentially obtain desired dose delivery levels with fewer catheters per target than is typically utilized with conventional HDR methods. Yet, the devices described herein may still be implanted with the use of conventional imaging methods (e.g. stereotactic X-ray, ultrasound, CT).
- Apparatus and methods of the present invention may also provide other benefits to the patient. For example, potentially less skin damage and discomfort may result from smaller and more flexible catheter insertions. Further, the small flexible tail portions described herein may be folded and taped against the skin, unlike rigid HDR catheters. Thus, the patient may have less discomfort over the course of treatment and potentially improved post-procedural cosmesis. Further, for example, apparatus and techniques in accordance with the present invention may potentially result in reduced side effects as compared to other treatments, e.g., EBRT and chemo, and may require fewer hospital visits over the course of the treatment regimen as compared to, for example, current HDR brachytherapy.
- Still further, the brachytherapy delivery systems described herein may provide a standardized dose of radiation based upon lesion size. As a result, the need for extensive dose calculating and mapping systems could potentially be reduced or eliminated with certain cancers (e.g., breast).
- The complete disclosure of the patents, patent documents, and publications cited in the Background, the Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments, and elsewhere herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each were individually incorporated.
- Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described above. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many embodiments are possible within the scope of the invention. Other variations, modifications, and combinations of the various components and methods described herein can certainly be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. For example, any of the treatment devices described herein may be combined with any of the delivery systems and methods also described herein. Thus, the invention is limited only by the following claims, and equivalents thereto.
Claims (25)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/867,625 US8323171B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2007-10-04 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US40944902P | 2002-09-10 | 2002-09-10 | |
US10/658,518 US7601113B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2003-09-09 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same |
US11/867,625 US8323171B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2007-10-04 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/658,518 Division US7601113B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2003-09-09 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080027266A1 true US20080027266A1 (en) | 2008-01-31 |
US8323171B2 US8323171B2 (en) | 2012-12-04 |
Family
ID=31993969
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/658,518 Active 2028-02-12 US7601113B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2003-09-09 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same |
US11/867,625 Active 2027-08-09 US8323171B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2007-10-04 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same |
US12/437,534 Active 2027-07-11 US8795145B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2009-05-07 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/658,518 Active 2028-02-12 US7601113B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2003-09-09 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/437,534 Active 2027-07-11 US8795145B2 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2009-05-07 | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (3) | US7601113B2 (en) |
EP (2) | EP1551509B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE412446T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003274960C1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2497919C (en) |
DE (1) | DE60324448D1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004024236A1 (en) |
Cited By (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100305475A1 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2010-12-02 | Hinchliffe Peter W J | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
WO2011053908A1 (en) * | 2009-11-02 | 2011-05-05 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for delivering appropriate minimally-invasive extraocular radiation |
US8430804B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2013-04-30 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive extraocular delivery of radiation to the posterior portion of the eye |
USD691270S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to an eye |
USD691268S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to eye |
USD691269S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to an eye |
USD691267S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to eye |
US8602959B1 (en) | 2010-05-21 | 2013-12-10 | Robert Park | Methods and devices for delivery of radiation to the posterior portion of the eye |
US8608632B1 (en) | 2009-07-03 | 2013-12-17 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive extraocular delivery of radiation and/or pharmaceutics to the posterior portion of the eye |
US9056201B1 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2015-06-16 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
US20170333154A1 (en) * | 2016-05-20 | 2017-11-23 | David LeBeau | Stabilization device and method for surgical localization wire |
USD808528S1 (en) | 2016-08-31 | 2018-01-23 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Holder for a brachytherapy device |
USD808529S1 (en) | 2016-08-31 | 2018-01-23 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Holder for a brachytherapy device |
US9873001B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2018-01-23 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
USD814638S1 (en) | 2016-05-11 | 2018-04-03 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Brachytherapy device |
USD814637S1 (en) | 2016-05-11 | 2018-04-03 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Brachytherapy device |
USD815285S1 (en) | 2016-05-11 | 2018-04-10 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Brachytherapy device |
US10022558B1 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2018-07-17 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
WO2020058555A1 (en) * | 2018-09-20 | 2020-03-26 | Fundación Rioja Salud | Shield for absorbing scatter radiation |
Families Citing this family (98)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP1545705A4 (en) | 2000-11-16 | 2010-04-28 | Microspherix Llc | Flexible and/or elastic brachytherapy seed or strand |
US7074291B2 (en) * | 2001-11-02 | 2006-07-11 | Worldwide Medical Technologies, L.L.C. | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy using strands constructed with extruded strand housings |
US7060020B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2006-06-13 | Ideamatrix, Inc. | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy |
NL1020740C2 (en) * | 2002-06-03 | 2003-12-08 | Nucletron Bv | Method and device for the temporary introduction and placement of at least one energy-emitting source in an animal body. |
ATE412446T1 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2008-11-15 | Cianna Medical Inc | BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE |
US7041047B2 (en) * | 2002-10-04 | 2006-05-09 | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. | Method and apparatus for the delivery of brachytherapy |
US6923754B2 (en) * | 2002-11-06 | 2005-08-02 | Senorx, Inc. | Vacuum device and method for treating tissue adjacent a body cavity |
US8328710B2 (en) * | 2002-11-06 | 2012-12-11 | Senorx, Inc. | Temporary catheter for biopsy site tissue fixation |
US20080214887A1 (en) * | 2003-06-18 | 2008-09-04 | Heanue Joseph A | Brachytherapy apparatus and method using off-center radiation source |
US7815561B2 (en) * | 2003-09-25 | 2010-10-19 | Xoft, Inc. | Brachytherapy applicator |
US7783006B2 (en) * | 2003-10-10 | 2010-08-24 | Xoft, Inc. | Radiation treatment using x-ray source |
US20050080313A1 (en) * | 2003-10-10 | 2005-04-14 | Stewart Daren L. | Applicator for radiation treatment of a cavity |
AU2005214040B2 (en) | 2004-02-12 | 2011-03-31 | Neo Vista, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for intraocular brachytherapy |
NL1026323C2 (en) * | 2004-06-03 | 2005-12-06 | Isodose Control B V | HDR device. |
CN101048106B (en) | 2004-06-23 | 2011-12-14 | 生物保护有限公司 | Device system and method for tissue displacement or separation |
WO2006043276A2 (en) * | 2004-10-19 | 2006-04-27 | Navotek Medical Ltd. | Locating a catheter tip using a tracked guide |
EP1805506A4 (en) | 2004-08-12 | 2010-06-02 | Navotek Medical Ltd | Localization of a radioactive source within a body of a subject |
US7662082B2 (en) * | 2004-11-05 | 2010-02-16 | Theragenics Corporation | Expandable brachytherapy device |
US7736293B2 (en) | 2005-07-22 | 2010-06-15 | Biocompatibles Uk Limited | Implants for use in brachytherapy and other radiation therapy that resist migration and rotation |
US8187159B2 (en) | 2005-07-22 | 2012-05-29 | Biocompatibles, UK | Therapeutic member including a rail used in brachytherapy and other radiation therapy |
BRPI0616514A2 (en) * | 2005-08-11 | 2011-06-21 | Navotek Medical Ltd | medical treatment system and method using position sensor based radioactivity |
EP1922011B1 (en) * | 2005-08-11 | 2012-05-02 | Navotek Medical Ltd. | Localization of a radioactive source |
EP1922113A1 (en) | 2005-08-11 | 2008-05-21 | Navotek Medical Ltd. | Medical treatment system and method using radioactivity based position sensor |
WO2007053823A2 (en) * | 2005-10-31 | 2007-05-10 | Biolucent, Inc. | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same |
US7887476B2 (en) * | 2005-11-10 | 2011-02-15 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Helical brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same |
US7862496B2 (en) | 2005-11-10 | 2011-01-04 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using them |
CN101505830A (en) * | 2005-11-15 | 2009-08-12 | 内奥维斯塔公司 | Methods and apparatus for intraocular brachytherapy |
US7465268B2 (en) | 2005-11-18 | 2008-12-16 | Senorx, Inc. | Methods for asymmetrical irradiation of a body cavity |
US7413539B2 (en) * | 2005-11-18 | 2008-08-19 | Senorx, Inc. | Treatment of a body cavity |
US8273006B2 (en) * | 2005-11-18 | 2012-09-25 | Senorx, Inc. | Tissue irradiation |
US8137256B2 (en) * | 2005-12-16 | 2012-03-20 | Portola Medical, Inc. | Brachytherapy apparatus |
US20070270627A1 (en) | 2005-12-16 | 2007-11-22 | North American Scientific | Brachytherapy apparatus for asymmetrical body cavities |
US7862497B2 (en) * | 2006-04-21 | 2011-01-04 | Portola Medical, Inc. | Brachytherapy device having seed tubes with individually-settable tissue spacings |
US7988611B2 (en) | 2006-05-09 | 2011-08-02 | Biocompatibles Uk Limited | After-loader for positioning implants for needle delivery in brachytherapy and other radiation therapy |
CA2653617C (en) | 2006-06-02 | 2016-08-30 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Expandable brachytherapy apparatus |
US8409069B1 (en) * | 2006-06-15 | 2013-04-02 | Ethan J. Schuman | Brachytherapy appliance and method |
US7686755B2 (en) * | 2006-06-19 | 2010-03-30 | Xoft, Inc. | Radiation therapy apparatus with selective shielding capability |
WO2008020931A2 (en) * | 2006-08-08 | 2008-02-21 | Peak Biosciences, Inc. | Device for delivery of anti-cancer agents to tissue |
US7874976B1 (en) | 2006-09-07 | 2011-01-25 | Biocompatibles Uk Limited | Echogenic strands and spacers therein |
US7878964B1 (en) | 2006-09-07 | 2011-02-01 | Biocompatibles Uk Limited | Echogenic spacers and strands |
CA2665326C (en) | 2006-10-08 | 2016-01-19 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Expandable brachytherapy apparatus |
US7727137B2 (en) * | 2006-10-13 | 2010-06-01 | Xoft, Inc. | Balloon brachytherapy applicator and method |
NL1032714C2 (en) * | 2006-10-20 | 2008-04-22 | Isodose Control Intellectual P | Transport cable and source capsule with safe connection construction for internal irradiation of patients. |
US8287442B2 (en) * | 2007-03-12 | 2012-10-16 | Senorx, Inc. | Radiation catheter with multilayered balloon |
US8740873B2 (en) * | 2007-03-15 | 2014-06-03 | Hologic, Inc. | Soft body catheter with low friction lumen |
US20080228023A1 (en) * | 2007-03-15 | 2008-09-18 | Senorx, Inc. | Soft body catheter with low friction lumen |
WO2008111073A2 (en) | 2007-03-15 | 2008-09-18 | Bioprotect Ltd. | Prosthetic devices and methods for using same |
CA2687226A1 (en) | 2007-05-14 | 2008-11-20 | Bioprotect Ltd. | Delivery device for delivering bioactive agents to internal tissue in a body |
US9259560B2 (en) * | 2007-07-02 | 2016-02-16 | Medi-Physics, Inc. | Brachytherapy array preparation device |
WO2009079170A2 (en) | 2007-12-16 | 2009-06-25 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Expandable brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using them |
US8360950B2 (en) * | 2008-01-24 | 2013-01-29 | Senorx, Inc. | Multilumen brachytherapy balloon catheter |
WO2009149175A1 (en) | 2008-06-04 | 2009-12-10 | Neovista, Inc. | Handheld radiation delivery system for advancing a radiation source wire |
US20100010287A1 (en) * | 2008-07-09 | 2010-01-14 | Senorx, Inc. | Brachytherapy device with one or more toroidal balloons |
WO2010022103A1 (en) | 2008-08-18 | 2010-02-25 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Brachytherapy apparatus, systems, and methods for using them |
IL199900A0 (en) * | 2008-08-18 | 2010-04-15 | Michal Tune | Implantation device for soft tissue markers and other implants |
US9579524B2 (en) | 2009-02-11 | 2017-02-28 | Hologic, Inc. | Flexible multi-lumen brachytherapy device |
US9248311B2 (en) | 2009-02-11 | 2016-02-02 | Hologic, Inc. | System and method for modifying a flexibility of a brachythereapy catheter |
US8764619B2 (en) * | 2009-04-21 | 2014-07-01 | Breast Microseed Llc | Brachytherapy fiducial needle fixation system and method |
US10207126B2 (en) | 2009-05-11 | 2019-02-19 | Cytyc Corporation | Lumen visualization and identification system for multi-lumen balloon catheter |
US8663210B2 (en) | 2009-05-13 | 2014-03-04 | Novian Health, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for performing interstitial laser therapy and interstitial brachytherapy |
US8348825B2 (en) * | 2009-06-30 | 2013-01-08 | Varian Medical Systems Uk Limited | Expanding multi-lumen applicator operating within a balloon |
EP2521586A4 (en) | 2010-01-07 | 2013-06-19 | Bioprotect Ltd | Controlled tissue dissection systems and methods |
US8814775B2 (en) | 2010-03-18 | 2014-08-26 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Expandable brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using them |
US20130123839A1 (en) * | 2010-03-25 | 2013-05-16 | Tyco Healthcare Group Lp | Chemical knots for sutures |
DE102010028105A1 (en) * | 2010-04-22 | 2011-10-27 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Method, device and device system for the treatment of prostate cancer |
US9883919B2 (en) | 2010-07-21 | 2018-02-06 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Brachytherapy apparatus, systems, and methods for using them |
WO2012017438A1 (en) | 2010-08-04 | 2012-02-09 | Ortho-Space Ltd. | Shoulder implant |
US9272160B2 (en) | 2010-08-20 | 2016-03-01 | Wake Forest University Health Sciences | Tethered and/or visually coded brachytherapy devices and related methods |
US9352172B2 (en) | 2010-09-30 | 2016-05-31 | Hologic, Inc. | Using a guide member to facilitate brachytherapy device swap |
US9067063B2 (en) | 2010-11-03 | 2015-06-30 | Cianna Medical, Inc. | Expandable brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using them |
WO2012141757A1 (en) * | 2010-12-29 | 2012-10-18 | Neochord, Inc. | Exchangeable system for minimally invasive beating heart repair of heart valve leaflets |
US10342992B2 (en) | 2011-01-06 | 2019-07-09 | Hologic, Inc. | Orienting a brachytherapy applicator |
US10350431B2 (en) | 2011-04-28 | 2019-07-16 | Gt Medical Technologies, Inc. | Customizable radioactive carriers and loading system |
ES2687679T3 (en) * | 2011-04-28 | 2018-10-26 | GT Medical Technologies, Inc | Dosimetrically customizable brachytherapy carriers |
US20130035757A1 (en) | 2011-06-01 | 2013-02-07 | John Zentgraf | Minimally invasive repair of heart valve leaflets |
WO2013057566A2 (en) | 2011-10-18 | 2013-04-25 | Ortho-Space Ltd. | Prosthetic devices and methods for using same |
CN103301561A (en) * | 2012-03-16 | 2013-09-18 | 吴沛宏 | High-flexibility radioactive particle and implanting method thereof |
WO2014031950A1 (en) * | 2012-08-24 | 2014-02-27 | Herskovic Arnold M | Device and method for improving brachytherapy |
US20140066687A1 (en) * | 2012-08-29 | 2014-03-06 | Source Production & Equipment Co., Inc. | Radiation therapy of protruding and/or conformable organs |
US9492683B2 (en) | 2013-03-15 | 2016-11-15 | Gammatile Llc | Dosimetrically customizable brachytherapy carriers and methods thereof in the treatment of tumors |
US9526867B2 (en) | 2013-08-01 | 2016-12-27 | Biosense Webster (Israel), Ltd. | Multishape catheter |
US9821174B1 (en) | 2015-02-06 | 2017-11-21 | Gammatile Llc | Radioactive implant planning system and placement guide system |
US9403033B1 (en) | 2015-04-24 | 2016-08-02 | Gammatile Llc | Apparatus and method for loading radioactive seeds into carriers |
WO2016179420A1 (en) * | 2015-05-06 | 2016-11-10 | Gammatile Llc | Radiation shielding |
US10765517B2 (en) | 2015-10-01 | 2020-09-08 | Neochord, Inc. | Ringless web for repair of heart valves |
WO2017070147A1 (en) | 2015-10-23 | 2017-04-27 | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. | Radioactive stents |
US10888710B1 (en) | 2016-11-29 | 2021-01-12 | Gt Medical Technologies, Inc. | Transparent loading apparatus |
US10213306B2 (en) | 2017-03-31 | 2019-02-26 | Neochord, Inc. | Minimally invasive heart valve repair in a beating heart |
US20200406059A1 (en) * | 2018-03-08 | 2020-12-31 | Alpha Tau Medical Ltd. | Radiotherapy seeds and applicators |
WO2019183626A1 (en) | 2018-03-23 | 2019-09-26 | Neochord, Inc. | Device for suture attachment for minimally invasive heart valve repair |
US11253360B2 (en) | 2018-05-09 | 2022-02-22 | Neochord, Inc. | Low profile tissue anchor for minimally invasive heart valve repair |
US11173030B2 (en) | 2018-05-09 | 2021-11-16 | Neochord, Inc. | Suture length adjustment for minimally invasive heart valve repair |
CN113194854A (en) | 2018-09-07 | 2021-07-30 | 尼奥绰德有限公司 | Suture attachment device for minimally invasive heart valve repair |
US10981018B2 (en) | 2019-02-14 | 2021-04-20 | Gt Medical Technologies, Inc. | Radioactive seed loading apparatus |
US11504546B2 (en) | 2019-02-28 | 2022-11-22 | Cowles Ventures, Llc | Needle guidance device for brachytherapy and method of use |
US11524176B2 (en) | 2019-03-14 | 2022-12-13 | Cowles Ventures, Llc | Locator for placement of fiducial support device method |
WO2020214818A1 (en) | 2019-04-16 | 2020-10-22 | Neochord, Inc. | Transverse helical cardiac anchor for minimally invasive heart valve repair |
CA3222415A1 (en) * | 2021-06-30 | 2023-01-05 | Alpha Tau Medical Ltd. | Radiotherapy applicator with perpendicular or angled radial dispensing |
Citations (53)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3060924A (en) * | 1960-06-01 | 1962-10-30 | Joseph C Rush | Apparatus for application of radioactive substance to pelvic cancer |
US3750653A (en) * | 1970-09-08 | 1973-08-07 | School Of Medicine University | Irradiators for treating the body |
US3968803A (en) * | 1975-06-04 | 1976-07-13 | Golda, Inc. | Surgical chest dressing |
US4427005A (en) * | 1982-03-04 | 1984-01-24 | Tener William S | Apparatus and method for treating breast tumors |
US4580561A (en) * | 1984-05-04 | 1986-04-08 | Williamson Theodore J | Interstitial implant system |
US4584991A (en) * | 1983-12-15 | 1986-04-29 | Tokita Kenneth M | Medical device for applying therapeutic radiation |
US4706652A (en) * | 1985-12-30 | 1987-11-17 | Henry Ford Hospital | Temporary radiation therapy |
US4714074A (en) * | 1985-06-28 | 1987-12-22 | Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique | Method for protecting human or animal organs against radiation |
US4798212A (en) * | 1986-11-17 | 1989-01-17 | Thomas Arana | Biopsy paddle with adjustable locator plate |
US4936823A (en) * | 1988-05-04 | 1990-06-26 | Triangle Research And Development Corp. | Transendoscopic implant capsule |
US4957476A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-09-18 | University Of Pittsburgh | Afterloading radioactive spiral implanter |
US4976680A (en) * | 1988-10-07 | 1990-12-11 | Hayman Michael H | Apparatus for in situ radiotherapy |
US5056523A (en) * | 1989-11-22 | 1991-10-15 | Board Of Regents, The University Of Texas System | Precision breast lesion localizer |
US5106360A (en) * | 1987-09-17 | 1992-04-21 | Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. | Thermotherapeutic apparatus |
US5152741A (en) * | 1991-08-23 | 1992-10-06 | Golda, Inc. | Surgical chest dressing |
US5235966A (en) * | 1991-10-17 | 1993-08-17 | Jay Jamner | Endoscopic retractor |
US5242372A (en) * | 1991-11-12 | 1993-09-07 | The Nomos Corporation | Tissue compensation method and apparatus |
US5279565A (en) * | 1993-02-03 | 1994-01-18 | Localmed, Inc. | Intravascular treatment apparatus and method |
US5302168A (en) * | 1991-09-05 | 1994-04-12 | Hess Robert L | Method and apparatus for restenosis treatment |
US5336178A (en) * | 1992-11-02 | 1994-08-09 | Localmed, Inc. | Intravascular catheter with infusion array |
US5354257A (en) * | 1991-01-29 | 1994-10-11 | Med Institute, Inc. | Minimally invasive medical device for providing a radiation treatment |
US5423747A (en) * | 1993-01-22 | 1995-06-13 | Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha | Medical pump drive |
US5429605A (en) * | 1994-01-26 | 1995-07-04 | Target Therapeutics, Inc. | Microballoon catheter |
US5484384A (en) * | 1991-01-29 | 1996-01-16 | Med Institute, Inc. | Minimally invasive medical device for providing a radiation treatment |
US5503613A (en) * | 1994-01-21 | 1996-04-02 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Apparatus and method to reduce restenosis after arterial intervention |
US5509900A (en) * | 1992-03-02 | 1996-04-23 | Kirkman; Thomas R. | Apparatus and method for retaining a catheter in a blood vessel in a fixed position |
US5538502A (en) * | 1994-12-27 | 1996-07-23 | Golda, Inc. | Surgical chest dressing |
US5540659A (en) * | 1993-07-15 | 1996-07-30 | Teirstein; Paul S. | Irradiation catheter and method of use |
US5611767A (en) * | 1991-06-14 | 1997-03-18 | Oncocath, Inc. | Radiation treatment of tumors using inflatable devices |
US5653683A (en) * | 1995-02-28 | 1997-08-05 | D'andrea; Mark A. | Intracavitary catheter for use in therapeutic radiation procedures |
US5678572A (en) * | 1995-01-12 | 1997-10-21 | Shaw; Dein | Cavity expanding device for laparoscopic surgery |
US5707332A (en) * | 1994-01-21 | 1998-01-13 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Apparatus and method to reduce restenosis after arterial intervention |
US5713828A (en) * | 1995-11-27 | 1998-02-03 | International Brachytherapy S.A | Hollow-tube brachytherapy device |
US5730698A (en) * | 1995-05-09 | 1998-03-24 | Fischell; Robert E. | Balloon expandable temporary radioisotope stent system |
US5782740A (en) * | 1996-08-29 | 1998-07-21 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. | Radiation dose delivery catheter with reinforcing mandrel |
US5840008A (en) * | 1995-11-13 | 1998-11-24 | Localmed, Inc. | Radiation emitting sleeve catheter and methods |
US5843163A (en) * | 1996-06-06 | 1998-12-01 | Wall; William H. | Expandable stent having radioactive treatment means |
US5851171A (en) * | 1997-11-04 | 1998-12-22 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. | Catheter assembly for centering a radiation source within a body lumen |
US5882291A (en) * | 1996-12-10 | 1999-03-16 | Neocardia, Llc | Device and method for controlling dose rate during intravascular radiotherapy |
US5910102A (en) * | 1997-01-10 | 1999-06-08 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Conversion of beta radiation to gamma radiation for intravascular radiation therapy |
US5913813A (en) * | 1997-07-24 | 1999-06-22 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Double-wall balloon catheter for treatment of proliferative tissue |
US5916143A (en) * | 1996-04-30 | 1999-06-29 | Apple; Marc G. | Brachytherapy catheter system |
US5931774A (en) * | 1991-06-14 | 1999-08-03 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Inflatable devices for tumor treatment |
US5938582A (en) * | 1997-09-26 | 1999-08-17 | Medtronic, Inc. | Radiation delivery centering catheter |
US5942209A (en) * | 1996-03-11 | 1999-08-24 | Focal, Inc. | Method of local radiotherapy by polymerizing a material in vivo to form a hydrogel |
US5976106A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 1999-11-02 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Medical appliance with centering balloon |
US6013019A (en) * | 1998-04-06 | 2000-01-11 | Isostent, Inc. | Temporary radioisotope stent |
US6030333A (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2000-02-29 | Radiomed Corporation | Implantable radiotherapy device |
US6033357A (en) * | 1997-03-28 | 2000-03-07 | Navius Corporation | Intravascular radiation delivery device |
US20010007071A1 (en) * | 1998-05-22 | 2001-07-05 | Koblish Josef V. | Surgical probe for supporting inflatable therapeutic devices in contact with tissue in or around body orifices and within tumors |
US6312375B1 (en) * | 1998-08-07 | 2001-11-06 | Joseph F. Montebello | Inflatable covering for tandem colpostat intracavitary implant |
US6482142B1 (en) * | 1997-07-24 | 2002-11-19 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Asymmetric radiation dosing apparatus and method |
US6673006B2 (en) * | 2001-06-15 | 2004-01-06 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Tissue positioning apparatus and method for protecting tissue from radiotherapy |
Family Cites Families (136)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US669170A (en) * | 1900-08-03 | 1901-03-05 | Emmett Howard | Manifolding telegraph-receiving blank. |
US3351049A (en) | 1965-04-12 | 1967-11-07 | Hazleton Nuclear Science Corp | Therapeutic metal seed containing within a radioactive isotope disposed on a carrier and method of manufacture |
US4323055A (en) | 1980-04-08 | 1982-04-06 | Minnesota Mining And Manufacturing Company | Radioactive iodine seed |
US4509506A (en) | 1981-05-11 | 1985-04-09 | Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing Co. | Shielding device for radioactive seed |
US4697575A (en) | 1984-11-21 | 1987-10-06 | Henry Ford Hospital | Delivery system for interstitial radiation therapy including substantially non-deflecting elongated member |
SE459635B (en) | 1987-11-19 | 1989-07-24 | Radiplast Ab | DRIVER CONTAINS A DEVICE FOR TAPE SAMPLING |
US5025797A (en) | 1989-03-29 | 1991-06-25 | Baran Gregory W | Automated biopsy instrument |
DE3921291A1 (en) | 1989-06-29 | 1991-01-10 | Amazonen Werke Dreyer H | Agricultural field spray boom - has central locking or tensioning device |
DE3924291C2 (en) | 1989-07-22 | 2000-07-13 | Bip Acquisition Company Inc | Biopsy channels for taking tissue samples |
US6099457A (en) * | 1990-08-13 | 2000-08-08 | Endotech, Inc. | Endocurietherapy |
US5284156A (en) | 1991-08-30 | 1994-02-08 | M3 Systems, Inc. | Automatic tissue sampling apparatus |
JPH09501326A (en) | 1993-05-04 | 1997-02-10 | オムニトロン インターナショナル インコーポレイテッド | Radiation source wire, device using the same, and treatment method |
DK0633041T3 (en) | 1993-07-01 | 2000-04-03 | Schneider Europ Gmbh | Medical apparatus for the treatment of blood vessels by means of ionizing radiation |
US6196996B1 (en) | 1993-07-15 | 2001-03-06 | Paul S. Teirstein | Irradiation catheter and method of use |
US5498227A (en) * | 1993-09-15 | 1996-03-12 | Mawad; Michel E. | Retrievable, shielded radiotherapy implant |
US5460592A (en) * | 1994-01-24 | 1995-10-24 | Amersham Holdings, Inc. | Apparatus and method for making carrier assembly for radioactive seed carrier |
US5649547A (en) | 1994-03-24 | 1997-07-22 | Biopsys Medical, Inc. | Methods and devices for automated biopsy and collection of soft tissue |
US5507298A (en) | 1994-09-23 | 1996-04-16 | M3 Systems, Inc., D/B/A/ Manan Medical Products, Inc. | Forward-fired automatic tissue sampling apparatus |
US5899882A (en) * | 1994-10-27 | 1999-05-04 | Novoste Corporation | Catheter apparatus for radiation treatment of a desired area in the vascular system of a patient |
US6059752A (en) | 1994-12-09 | 2000-05-09 | Segal; Jerome | Mechanical apparatus and method for dilating and irradiating a site of treatment |
US5605530A (en) * | 1995-03-23 | 1997-02-25 | Fischell; Robert E. | System for safe implantation of radioisotope stents |
US5637073A (en) * | 1995-08-28 | 1997-06-10 | Freire; Jorge E. | Radiation therapy for treating macular degeneration and applicator |
US5769086A (en) | 1995-12-06 | 1998-06-23 | Biopsys Medical, Inc. | Control system and method for automated biopsy device |
AU1331497A (en) | 1995-12-18 | 1997-07-14 | Kerisma Medical Products, L.L.C. | Fiberoptic-guided interstitial seed manual applicator and seed cartridge |
US6234951B1 (en) | 1996-02-29 | 2001-05-22 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Intravascular radiation delivery system |
IT1285597B1 (en) | 1996-03-07 | 1998-06-18 | Gallini Srl | AUTOMATIC NEEDLE DEVICE FOR BIOPSY |
US6217585B1 (en) | 1996-08-16 | 2001-04-17 | Converge Medical, Inc. | Mechanical stent and graft delivery system |
US5924973A (en) * | 1996-09-26 | 1999-07-20 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Method of treating a disease process in a luminal structure |
US6261320B1 (en) | 1996-11-21 | 2001-07-17 | Radiance Medical Systems, Inc. | Radioactive vascular liner |
US6117064A (en) | 1997-01-06 | 2000-09-12 | Apple; Marc G. | Catheter system |
US5782742A (en) | 1997-01-31 | 1998-07-21 | Cardiovascular Dynamics, Inc. | Radiation delivery balloon |
US6287249B1 (en) | 1998-02-19 | 2001-09-11 | Radiance Medical Systems, Inc. | Thin film radiation source |
US6458069B1 (en) | 1998-02-19 | 2002-10-01 | Endology, Inc. | Multi layer radiation delivery balloon |
US6059812A (en) | 1997-03-21 | 2000-05-09 | Schneider (Usa) Inc. | Self-expanding medical device for centering radioactive treatment sources in body vessels |
US6159141A (en) | 1997-09-11 | 2000-12-12 | Cook Incorporated | Medical radiation treatment delivery apparatus |
US6592548B2 (en) | 1997-09-18 | 2003-07-15 | Iowa-India Investments Company Limited Of Douglas | Delivery mechanism for balloons, drugs, stents and other physical/mechanical agents and method of use |
US6056722A (en) | 1997-09-18 | 2000-05-02 | Iowa-India Investments Company Limited Of Douglas | Delivery mechanism for balloons, drugs, stents and other physical/mechanical agents and methods of use |
DE19743877B4 (en) | 1997-10-04 | 2008-01-31 | Kabe-Labortechnik Gmbh | Flexible body with hoses or catheters embedded therein, in particular for radiation therapy and method for its production |
US6419621B1 (en) | 1997-10-24 | 2002-07-16 | Radiomed Corporation | Coiled brachytherapy device |
US6110164A (en) * | 1997-12-05 | 2000-08-29 | Intratherapeutics, Inc. | Guideless catheter segment |
US5997503A (en) | 1998-02-12 | 1999-12-07 | Ballard Medical Products | Catheter with distally distending balloon |
US6159139A (en) | 1998-02-17 | 2000-12-12 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems Inc. | Radiation delivery catheter with a spring wire centering mechanism |
US6338709B1 (en) | 1998-02-19 | 2002-01-15 | Medtronic Percusurge, Inc. | Intravascular radiation therapy device and method of use |
US6494824B1 (en) | 1998-02-20 | 2002-12-17 | Marc G. Apple | Medical, radiotherapy source vial |
US6074339A (en) | 1998-05-07 | 2000-06-13 | Medtronic Ave, Inc. | Expandable braid device and method for radiation treatment |
US6309369B1 (en) | 1998-05-22 | 2001-10-30 | Gail S. Lebovic | Surgical binder and methods of use |
US6036632A (en) | 1998-05-28 | 2000-03-14 | Barzell-Whitmore Maroon Bells, Inc. | Sterile disposable template grid system |
US6159143A (en) | 1998-06-17 | 2000-12-12 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Method and device for delivery of therapeutic agents in conjunction with isotope seed placement |
US6607476B1 (en) | 1998-10-01 | 2003-08-19 | University Of Iowa Research Foundation | Brachytherapy positioning system |
EP1127355B1 (en) | 1998-11-06 | 2006-03-01 | GE Healthcare Limited | Products and methods for brachytherapy |
IT1304781B1 (en) | 1998-12-04 | 2001-03-29 | Gallini S R L | DEVICE FOR THE AUTOMATIC EXECUTION OF BIOPSIES. |
US6371904B1 (en) * | 1998-12-24 | 2002-04-16 | Vivant Medical, Inc. | Subcutaneous cavity marking device and method |
US6179766B1 (en) | 1999-01-28 | 2001-01-30 | Gregg A. Dickerson | Methods of breast cancer treatment |
US6196963B1 (en) | 1999-03-02 | 2001-03-06 | Medtronic Ave, Inc. | Brachytherapy device assembly and method of use |
US20020165427A1 (en) | 1999-03-15 | 2002-11-07 | Daniel Yachia | Intravesicular device |
US6200256B1 (en) | 1999-03-17 | 2001-03-13 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Apparatus and method to treat a disease process in a luminal structure |
US6200257B1 (en) | 1999-03-24 | 2001-03-13 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Catheter with permeable hydrogel membrane |
US6258099B1 (en) | 1999-03-31 | 2001-07-10 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Stent security balloon/balloon catheter |
DE60037577T2 (en) * | 1999-04-09 | 2008-12-11 | Medi Physics, Inc., Arlington Heights | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR LOADING ADMINISTRATION SYSTEMS FOR BRACHYTHERAPIESEEDS |
US6482178B1 (en) | 1999-05-21 | 2002-11-19 | Cook Urological Incorporated | Localization device with anchoring barbs |
DE69922932T2 (en) * | 1999-06-18 | 2005-12-08 | Aea Technology Qsa Gmbh | Radiation source for endovascular irradiation |
US6213976B1 (en) | 1999-07-22 | 2001-04-10 | Advanced Research And Technology Institute, Inc. | Brachytherapy guide catheter |
US6251060B1 (en) * | 1999-07-23 | 2001-06-26 | Nucletron B.V. | Apparatus and method for temporarily inserting a radioactive source in an animal body |
US6454696B1 (en) | 1999-07-23 | 2002-09-24 | Nucletron B. V. | Device and method for implanting radioactive seeds |
US6595908B2 (en) | 1999-07-23 | 2003-07-22 | Nucletron B.V. | Method for analyzing amount of activity |
US6267718B1 (en) | 1999-07-26 | 2001-07-31 | Ethicon, Endo-Surgery, Inc. | Brachytherapy seed cartridge |
US6221003B1 (en) | 1999-07-26 | 2001-04-24 | Indigo Medical, Incorporated | Brachytherapy cartridge including absorbable and autoclaveable spacer |
US6238374B1 (en) | 1999-08-06 | 2001-05-29 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Hazardous fluid infuser |
US6264599B1 (en) | 1999-08-10 | 2001-07-24 | Syntheon, Llc | Radioactive therapeutic seeds having fixation structure |
US6319189B1 (en) | 1999-09-13 | 2001-11-20 | Isotron, Inc. | Methods for treating solid tumors using neutron therapy |
US6352500B1 (en) | 1999-09-13 | 2002-03-05 | Isotron, Inc. | Neutron brachytherapy device and method |
US6752753B1 (en) | 1999-10-15 | 2004-06-22 | Deschutes Medical Products, Inc. | Brachytherapy instrument and methods |
US6527692B1 (en) | 1999-11-19 | 2003-03-04 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Radiation catheters optimized for stepped delivery technique |
JP2001161838A (en) | 1999-12-07 | 2001-06-19 | Radiomed Corp | Wire-like radiation source member for cancer treatment and feeding device of the same |
US7163504B1 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2007-01-16 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. | Multi-lumen fluted balloon radiation centering catheter |
US7014633B2 (en) | 2000-02-16 | 2006-03-21 | Trans1, Inc. | Methods of performing procedures in the spine |
US6564806B1 (en) | 2000-02-18 | 2003-05-20 | Thomas J. Fogarty | Device for accurately marking tissue |
US6629953B1 (en) | 2000-02-18 | 2003-10-07 | Fox Hollow Technologies, Inc. | Methods and devices for removing material from a vascular site |
US6358195B1 (en) | 2000-03-09 | 2002-03-19 | Neoseed Technology Llc | Method and apparatus for loading radioactive seeds into brachytherapy needles |
DE60109437T2 (en) | 2000-04-24 | 2006-04-06 | The University Of Miami, Miami | MULTIPLE VAGINAL CYLINDER SYSTEM FOR LOW-DOSED BRACHYTHERAPY |
AU2001263207A1 (en) | 2000-05-18 | 2001-11-26 | Integrated Implant Systems, L.L.C. | Targeting fixture for a grid template |
US6508784B1 (en) | 2000-05-19 | 2003-01-21 | Yan-Ho Shu | Balloon catheter having adjustable centering capabilities and methods thereof |
US6869390B2 (en) | 2000-06-05 | 2005-03-22 | Mentor Corporation | Automated implantation system for radioisotope seeds |
JP4538918B2 (en) | 2000-08-02 | 2010-09-08 | 株式会社カネカ | Medical catheter for treating part of a body tube with ionizing radiation |
WO2003028808A2 (en) | 2000-10-25 | 2003-04-10 | Lamoureux Gary A | Pre-loaded needle assembly |
US6554757B1 (en) | 2000-11-10 | 2003-04-29 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Multi-source x-ray catheter |
US6540655B1 (en) | 2000-11-10 | 2003-04-01 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Miniature x-ray unit |
US6746661B2 (en) | 2000-11-16 | 2004-06-08 | Microspherix Llc | Brachytherapy seed |
US6723037B2 (en) * | 2000-12-15 | 2004-04-20 | Kawasumi Laboratories, Inc. | Protective tool for therapeutic material delivery device, cartridge for therapeutic material delivery device, and a therapeutic material delivery device |
US6494843B2 (en) | 2000-12-19 | 2002-12-17 | Ge Medical Systems Global Technology Company, Llc | Transesophageal ultrasound probe with expandable scanhead |
US6527693B2 (en) | 2001-01-30 | 2003-03-04 | Implant Sciences Corporation | Methods and implants for providing radiation to a patient |
US6645135B1 (en) | 2001-03-30 | 2003-11-11 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. | Intravascular catheter device and method for simultaneous local delivery of radiation and a therapeutic substance |
AU2002309523A1 (en) | 2001-04-02 | 2002-10-15 | Radiovascular, Inc. | A brachytherapy device and method of use |
US20020169354A1 (en) | 2001-05-10 | 2002-11-14 | Munro John J. | Brachytherapy systems and methods |
JP2005532832A (en) * | 2001-09-24 | 2005-11-04 | ノヴォスト コーポレイション | Method and apparatus using ionizing radiation for the treatment of arrhythmias |
US7060020B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2006-06-13 | Ideamatrix, Inc. | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy |
US7094198B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2006-08-22 | Worldwide Medical Technologies, Llc | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy using seed elements with ends having one of projections and indentations |
US7074291B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2006-07-11 | Worldwide Medical Technologies, L.L.C. | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy using strands constructed with extruded strand housings |
US6820318B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2004-11-23 | Ideamatrix, Inc. | System for manufacturing interstitial radiation therapy seed strands |
US6786858B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2004-09-07 | Ideamatrix, Inc. | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiotherapy using hollow seeds |
US6761680B2 (en) | 2001-11-02 | 2004-07-13 | Richard A. Terwilliger | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy using seed strands constructed with preformed strand housing |
US6746465B2 (en) | 2001-12-14 | 2004-06-08 | The Regents Of The University Of California | Catheter based balloon for therapy modification and positioning of tissue |
US6929637B2 (en) | 2002-02-21 | 2005-08-16 | Spiration, Inc. | Device and method for intra-bronchial provision of a therapeutic agent |
US6773390B2 (en) * | 2002-03-20 | 2004-08-10 | Cordis Corporation | Radioactive source ribbon assembly |
US20030236443A1 (en) | 2002-04-19 | 2003-12-25 | Cespedes Eduardo Ignacio | Methods and apparatus for the identification and stabilization of vulnerable plaque |
NL1020740C2 (en) * | 2002-06-03 | 2003-12-08 | Nucletron Bv | Method and device for the temporary introduction and placement of at least one energy-emitting source in an animal body. |
US20040006305A1 (en) | 2002-07-03 | 2004-01-08 | Stephen Hebert | Balloon catheter having an expandable distal end |
ATE412446T1 (en) | 2002-09-10 | 2008-11-15 | Cianna Medical Inc | BRACHYTHERAPY DEVICE |
EP1402922B1 (en) | 2002-09-27 | 2007-02-07 | Nucletron B.V. | Device for radiation treatment of proliferative tissue surrounding a cavity in an animal body |
FR2845266B1 (en) | 2002-10-03 | 2004-12-17 | Porges Sa | DEVICE FOR TAKING A BODY SAMPLE |
US7041047B2 (en) | 2002-10-04 | 2006-05-09 | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. | Method and apparatus for the delivery of brachytherapy |
ES2256407T3 (en) | 2002-10-07 | 2006-07-16 | Nucletron B.V. | DEVICE FOR IMPLEMENTING A SERIES OF RADIOACTIVE SEEDS AND NON-RADIOACTIVE SPACERS. |
US6923754B2 (en) | 2002-11-06 | 2005-08-02 | Senorx, Inc. | Vacuum device and method for treating tissue adjacent a body cavity |
US7247160B2 (en) | 2002-12-30 | 2007-07-24 | Calypso Medical Technologies, Inc. | Apparatuses and methods for percutaneously implanting objects in patients |
DE60310187T2 (en) | 2003-01-27 | 2007-10-11 | Nucletron B.V. | Device for automatic image-guided introduction of a long hollow needle for brachytherapy |
US6989486B2 (en) | 2003-03-26 | 2006-01-24 | Xoft Microtube, Inc. | High voltage cable for a miniature x-ray tube |
US7037252B2 (en) | 2003-05-05 | 2006-05-02 | Draxis Specialty Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Brachytherapy seed transport devices and methods for using same |
US6997862B2 (en) | 2003-05-13 | 2006-02-14 | Ideamatrix, Inc. | Delivery system and method for interstitial radiation therapy using seed strands with custom end spacing |
US7322929B2 (en) | 2003-06-18 | 2008-01-29 | Xoft, Inc. | Method for radiation treatment |
US7578780B2 (en) | 2003-06-18 | 2009-08-25 | Xoft, Inc. | Brachytherapy applicator for delivery and assessment of low-level ionizing radiation therapy and methods of use |
US7338430B2 (en) | 2003-06-18 | 2008-03-04 | Xoft, Inc. | Gynecological brachytherapy applicator and system |
US7744620B2 (en) | 2003-07-18 | 2010-06-29 | Intervalve, Inc. | Valvuloplasty catheter |
EP3045136B1 (en) | 2003-09-12 | 2021-02-24 | Vessix Vascular, Inc. | Selectable eccentric remodeling and/or ablation of atherosclerotic material |
US20050080313A1 (en) | 2003-10-10 | 2005-04-14 | Stewart Daren L. | Applicator for radiation treatment of a cavity |
US7524274B2 (en) | 2003-11-07 | 2009-04-28 | Cytyc Corporation | Tissue positioning systems and methods for use with radiation therapy |
US20050124843A1 (en) | 2003-12-09 | 2005-06-09 | Washington University | Method and apparatus for delivering targeted therapy to a patient |
EP1568397A1 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2005-08-31 | Acrostak Corp. | Balloon for brachytherapy and application of the balloon |
GB2415907A (en) | 2004-07-05 | 2006-01-11 | Vishnu Shanker Shukla | A radiotherapy device for treating cancers in viscous organs such as the bladder |
EP1616597B1 (en) | 2004-07-15 | 2010-10-27 | Nucletron B.V. | Device for radiation treatment of proliferative tissue surrounding a cavity in an animal body |
WO2006039698A1 (en) | 2004-10-01 | 2006-04-13 | Calypso Medical Technologies, Inc. | Systems and methods for treating a patient using radiation therapy |
US7534202B2 (en) | 2004-10-04 | 2009-05-19 | Board Of Regents, The University Of Texas System | System and method for high dose rate radiation intracavitary brachytherapy |
US7662082B2 (en) | 2004-11-05 | 2010-02-16 | Theragenics Corporation | Expandable brachytherapy device |
US20060184192A1 (en) | 2005-02-11 | 2006-08-17 | Markworth Aaron D | Systems and methods for providing cavities in interior body regions |
US7431687B2 (en) | 2005-03-07 | 2008-10-07 | Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc. | Percutaneous array delivery system |
DE102005022120B4 (en) | 2005-05-12 | 2009-04-09 | Siemens Ag | Catheter, catheter device and diagnostic imaging device |
US7357770B1 (en) | 2006-11-03 | 2008-04-15 | North American Scientific, Inc. | Expandable brachytherapy device with constant radiation source spacing |
-
2003
- 2003-09-09 AT AT03759230T patent/ATE412446T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-09-09 WO PCT/US2003/028343 patent/WO2004024236A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-09-09 CA CA2497919A patent/CA2497919C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-09-09 AU AU2003274960A patent/AU2003274960C1/en not_active Expired
- 2003-09-09 US US10/658,518 patent/US7601113B2/en active Active
- 2003-09-09 EP EP03759230A patent/EP1551509B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-09-09 EP EP08075721.4A patent/EP2008690B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-09-09 DE DE60324448T patent/DE60324448D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2007
- 2007-10-04 US US11/867,625 patent/US8323171B2/en active Active
-
2009
- 2009-05-07 US US12/437,534 patent/US8795145B2/en active Active
Patent Citations (59)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3060924A (en) * | 1960-06-01 | 1962-10-30 | Joseph C Rush | Apparatus for application of radioactive substance to pelvic cancer |
US3750653A (en) * | 1970-09-08 | 1973-08-07 | School Of Medicine University | Irradiators for treating the body |
US3968803A (en) * | 1975-06-04 | 1976-07-13 | Golda, Inc. | Surgical chest dressing |
US4427005A (en) * | 1982-03-04 | 1984-01-24 | Tener William S | Apparatus and method for treating breast tumors |
US4584991A (en) * | 1983-12-15 | 1986-04-29 | Tokita Kenneth M | Medical device for applying therapeutic radiation |
US4580561A (en) * | 1984-05-04 | 1986-04-08 | Williamson Theodore J | Interstitial implant system |
US4714074A (en) * | 1985-06-28 | 1987-12-22 | Centre National De La Recherche Scientifique | Method for protecting human or animal organs against radiation |
US4706652A (en) * | 1985-12-30 | 1987-11-17 | Henry Ford Hospital | Temporary radiation therapy |
US4798212A (en) * | 1986-11-17 | 1989-01-17 | Thomas Arana | Biopsy paddle with adjustable locator plate |
US5106360A (en) * | 1987-09-17 | 1992-04-21 | Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. | Thermotherapeutic apparatus |
US4936823A (en) * | 1988-05-04 | 1990-06-26 | Triangle Research And Development Corp. | Transendoscopic implant capsule |
US4976680A (en) * | 1988-10-07 | 1990-12-11 | Hayman Michael H | Apparatus for in situ radiotherapy |
US4957476A (en) * | 1989-01-09 | 1990-09-18 | University Of Pittsburgh | Afterloading radioactive spiral implanter |
US5056523A (en) * | 1989-11-22 | 1991-10-15 | Board Of Regents, The University Of Texas System | Precision breast lesion localizer |
US5354257A (en) * | 1991-01-29 | 1994-10-11 | Med Institute, Inc. | Minimally invasive medical device for providing a radiation treatment |
US5484384A (en) * | 1991-01-29 | 1996-01-16 | Med Institute, Inc. | Minimally invasive medical device for providing a radiation treatment |
US5611767A (en) * | 1991-06-14 | 1997-03-18 | Oncocath, Inc. | Radiation treatment of tumors using inflatable devices |
US5931774A (en) * | 1991-06-14 | 1999-08-03 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Inflatable devices for tumor treatment |
US6022308A (en) * | 1991-06-14 | 2000-02-08 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Tumor treatment |
US5152741A (en) * | 1991-08-23 | 1992-10-06 | Golda, Inc. | Surgical chest dressing |
US5411466A (en) * | 1991-09-05 | 1995-05-02 | Robert L. Hess | Apparatus for restenosis treatment |
US5302168A (en) * | 1991-09-05 | 1994-04-12 | Hess Robert L | Method and apparatus for restenosis treatment |
US5235966A (en) * | 1991-10-17 | 1993-08-17 | Jay Jamner | Endoscopic retractor |
US5242372A (en) * | 1991-11-12 | 1993-09-07 | The Nomos Corporation | Tissue compensation method and apparatus |
US5509900A (en) * | 1992-03-02 | 1996-04-23 | Kirkman; Thomas R. | Apparatus and method for retaining a catheter in a blood vessel in a fixed position |
US5336178A (en) * | 1992-11-02 | 1994-08-09 | Localmed, Inc. | Intravascular catheter with infusion array |
US5423747A (en) * | 1993-01-22 | 1995-06-13 | Terumo Kabushiki Kaisha | Medical pump drive |
US5279565A (en) * | 1993-02-03 | 1994-01-18 | Localmed, Inc. | Intravascular treatment apparatus and method |
US5540659A (en) * | 1993-07-15 | 1996-07-30 | Teirstein; Paul S. | Irradiation catheter and method of use |
US5891091A (en) * | 1993-07-15 | 1999-04-06 | Teirstein; Paul S. | Irradiation catheter and method of use |
US5707332A (en) * | 1994-01-21 | 1998-01-13 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Apparatus and method to reduce restenosis after arterial intervention |
US5503613A (en) * | 1994-01-21 | 1996-04-02 | The Trustees Of Columbia University In The City Of New York | Apparatus and method to reduce restenosis after arterial intervention |
US5429605A (en) * | 1994-01-26 | 1995-07-04 | Target Therapeutics, Inc. | Microballoon catheter |
US5976106A (en) * | 1994-06-24 | 1999-11-02 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Medical appliance with centering balloon |
US5538502A (en) * | 1994-12-27 | 1996-07-23 | Golda, Inc. | Surgical chest dressing |
US5678572A (en) * | 1995-01-12 | 1997-10-21 | Shaw; Dein | Cavity expanding device for laparoscopic surgery |
US5653683A (en) * | 1995-02-28 | 1997-08-05 | D'andrea; Mark A. | Intracavitary catheter for use in therapeutic radiation procedures |
US5720717A (en) * | 1995-02-28 | 1998-02-24 | D'andrea; Mark A. | Intracavitary catheter for use in therapeutic radiation procedures |
US5730698A (en) * | 1995-05-09 | 1998-03-24 | Fischell; Robert E. | Balloon expandable temporary radioisotope stent system |
US5840008A (en) * | 1995-11-13 | 1998-11-24 | Localmed, Inc. | Radiation emitting sleeve catheter and methods |
US5863284A (en) * | 1995-11-13 | 1999-01-26 | Localmed, Inc. | Devices and methods for radiation treatment of an internal body organ |
US5713828A (en) * | 1995-11-27 | 1998-02-03 | International Brachytherapy S.A | Hollow-tube brachytherapy device |
US5942209A (en) * | 1996-03-11 | 1999-08-24 | Focal, Inc. | Method of local radiotherapy by polymerizing a material in vivo to form a hydrogel |
US5916143A (en) * | 1996-04-30 | 1999-06-29 | Apple; Marc G. | Brachytherapy catheter system |
US5843163A (en) * | 1996-06-06 | 1998-12-01 | Wall; William H. | Expandable stent having radioactive treatment means |
US5782740A (en) * | 1996-08-29 | 1998-07-21 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. | Radiation dose delivery catheter with reinforcing mandrel |
US5882291A (en) * | 1996-12-10 | 1999-03-16 | Neocardia, Llc | Device and method for controlling dose rate during intravascular radiotherapy |
US5910102A (en) * | 1997-01-10 | 1999-06-08 | Scimed Life Systems, Inc. | Conversion of beta radiation to gamma radiation for intravascular radiation therapy |
US6033357A (en) * | 1997-03-28 | 2000-03-07 | Navius Corporation | Intravascular radiation delivery device |
US5913813A (en) * | 1997-07-24 | 1999-06-22 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Double-wall balloon catheter for treatment of proliferative tissue |
US6413204B1 (en) * | 1997-07-24 | 2002-07-02 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Interstitial brachytherapy apparatus and method for treatment of proliferative tissue diseases |
US6482142B1 (en) * | 1997-07-24 | 2002-11-19 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Asymmetric radiation dosing apparatus and method |
US5938582A (en) * | 1997-09-26 | 1999-08-17 | Medtronic, Inc. | Radiation delivery centering catheter |
US6030333A (en) * | 1997-10-24 | 2000-02-29 | Radiomed Corporation | Implantable radiotherapy device |
US5851171A (en) * | 1997-11-04 | 1998-12-22 | Advanced Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. | Catheter assembly for centering a radiation source within a body lumen |
US6013019A (en) * | 1998-04-06 | 2000-01-11 | Isostent, Inc. | Temporary radioisotope stent |
US20010007071A1 (en) * | 1998-05-22 | 2001-07-05 | Koblish Josef V. | Surgical probe for supporting inflatable therapeutic devices in contact with tissue in or around body orifices and within tumors |
US6312375B1 (en) * | 1998-08-07 | 2001-11-06 | Joseph F. Montebello | Inflatable covering for tandem colpostat intracavitary implant |
US6673006B2 (en) * | 2001-06-15 | 2004-01-06 | Proxima Therapeutics, Inc. | Tissue positioning apparatus and method for protecting tissue from radiotherapy |
Cited By (30)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100305475A1 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2010-12-02 | Hinchliffe Peter W J | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US9387308B2 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2016-07-12 | Cardioguidance Biomedical, Llc | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US10258773B2 (en) | 2007-04-23 | 2019-04-16 | Cardioguidance Biomedical, Llc | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US9387309B2 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2016-07-12 | Cardioguidance Biomedical, Llc | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US20130131643A1 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2013-05-23 | Cardioguidance Biomedical, Llc | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US20130131644A1 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2013-05-23 | Cardioguidance Biomedical, Llc | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US9498603B2 (en) * | 2007-04-23 | 2016-11-22 | Cardioguidance Biomedical, Llc | Guidewire with adjustable stiffness |
US8430804B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2013-04-30 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive extraocular delivery of radiation to the posterior portion of the eye |
US9873001B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2018-01-23 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
US10022558B1 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2018-07-17 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
US8597169B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2013-12-03 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive extraocular delivery of radiation to the posterior portion of the eye |
US9056201B1 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2015-06-16 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
US10850118B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2020-12-01 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minim ally-invasive delivery of radiation to the eye |
USD691268S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to eye |
USD691267S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to eye |
USD691270S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to an eye |
USD691269S1 (en) | 2009-01-07 | 2013-10-08 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Fixed-shape cannula for posterior delivery of radiation to an eye |
US8608632B1 (en) | 2009-07-03 | 2013-12-17 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for minimally-invasive extraocular delivery of radiation and/or pharmaceutics to the posterior portion of the eye |
WO2011053908A1 (en) * | 2009-11-02 | 2011-05-05 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods and devices for delivering appropriate minimally-invasive extraocular radiation |
US20110207987A1 (en) * | 2009-11-02 | 2011-08-25 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Methods And Devices For Delivering Appropriate Minimally-Invasive Extraocular Radiation |
US8602959B1 (en) | 2010-05-21 | 2013-12-10 | Robert Park | Methods and devices for delivery of radiation to the posterior portion of the eye |
USD814637S1 (en) | 2016-05-11 | 2018-04-03 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Brachytherapy device |
USD814638S1 (en) | 2016-05-11 | 2018-04-03 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Brachytherapy device |
USD815285S1 (en) | 2016-05-11 | 2018-04-10 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Brachytherapy device |
US10070938B2 (en) * | 2016-05-20 | 2018-09-11 | David LeBeau | Stabilization device and method for surgical localization wire |
US10426569B2 (en) | 2016-05-20 | 2019-10-01 | David LeBeau | Stabilization device and method for surgical localization wire |
US20170333154A1 (en) * | 2016-05-20 | 2017-11-23 | David LeBeau | Stabilization device and method for surgical localization wire |
USD808529S1 (en) | 2016-08-31 | 2018-01-23 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Holder for a brachytherapy device |
USD808528S1 (en) | 2016-08-31 | 2018-01-23 | Salutaris Medical Devices, Inc. | Holder for a brachytherapy device |
WO2020058555A1 (en) * | 2018-09-20 | 2020-03-26 | Fundación Rioja Salud | Shield for absorbing scatter radiation |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20040116767A1 (en) | 2004-06-17 |
AU2003274960C1 (en) | 2010-04-01 |
EP2008690A3 (en) | 2009-03-18 |
EP2008690A2 (en) | 2008-12-31 |
US8795145B2 (en) | 2014-08-05 |
CA2497919A1 (en) | 2004-03-25 |
US8323171B2 (en) | 2012-12-04 |
EP1551509A1 (en) | 2005-07-13 |
US20090216064A1 (en) | 2009-08-27 |
EP1551509B1 (en) | 2008-10-29 |
DE60324448D1 (en) | 2008-12-11 |
WO2004024236A1 (en) | 2004-03-25 |
WO2004024236A8 (en) | 2005-05-26 |
US7601113B2 (en) | 2009-10-13 |
ATE412446T1 (en) | 2008-11-15 |
CA2497919C (en) | 2015-11-03 |
AU2003274960A1 (en) | 2004-04-30 |
AU2003274960B2 (en) | 2009-09-03 |
EP2008690B1 (en) | 2013-11-06 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8323171B2 (en) | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using same | |
US11130004B2 (en) | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods for using them | |
US7887476B2 (en) | Helical brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same | |
US7736292B2 (en) | Brachytherapy apparatus and methods of using same | |
AU2007256766B2 (en) | Expandable brachytherapy apparatus |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SOLAR CAPITAL LTD., AS COLLATERAL AGENT, NEW YORK Free format text: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNOR:CIANNA MEDICAL, INC.;REEL/FRAME:040581/0215 Effective date: 20160928 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CURAY MEDICAL, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:LEBOVIC, GAIL S.;HERMANN, GEORGE D.;SIGNING DATES FROM 20041202 TO 20041210;REEL/FRAME:047059/0923 Owner name: CIANNA MEDICAL, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:BIOLUCENT, INC.;REEL/FRAME:047060/0026 Effective date: 20070918 Owner name: BIOLUCENT, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: MERGER;ASSIGNOR:CURAY MEDICAL, INC.;REEL/FRAME:047060/0001 Effective date: 20050414 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CIANNA MEDICAL, INC., CALIFORNIA Free format text: RELEASE BY SECURED PARTY;ASSIGNOR:SOLAR CAPITAL LTD.;REEL/FRAME:047505/0212 Effective date: 20181113 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 8TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1552); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY Year of fee payment: 8 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CIANNA MEDICAL, INC.;REEL/FRAME:054813/0661 Effective date: 20201218 |